FOLSOM, CA - The industry is in need of leaders who will take us into the future, and the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) is working to make it happen. The organization recently announced the third cohort of fellows accepted into its Blueberry Industry Leadership Program, designed to elevate up-and-coming leaders in the blueberry industry by providing in-depth training, industry education, and connections.

“We are thrilled to welcome this group of leaders as the third class of fellows,” said Amanda Griffin, Vice President of Engagement and Education. “Since launching the Blueberry Leadership Program, we have received an overwhelming interest, which always makes the selection process extremely difficult. The USHBC is proud to provide this opportunity to these ag professionals, empowering them to guide the blueberry industry into a bright future.”

Selected as the third class of fellows in the program are:

• Peter Machala, Category Manager, Wakefern Food Corp.
• Stephanie Kleiner, Blueberry Product Business Manager, Driscoll’s
• Yvan Berrospi, Supply Chain and Operations Coordinator, Family Tree Farms
• Gabriel Bocock, General Manager of Operations, Bumbleberry Acres
• Joshua Carlton, Farm Manager, JLC Farms
• Sergio Carrasco, Production Manager, The Fruitist Company
• Jake Johnson, Sales and Grower Support II, Fall Creek Farm & Nursery
• Brody Schropp, Horticulturist, MBG Marketing
• Zach Semerikov, Food Safety and Quality Assurance Manager, Scenic Fruit
• Jessica Silver, Commercial Manager, United Exports Sales and Marketing

The Blueberry Industry Leadership Program is the first of its kind in the blueberry industry and helps fellows grow their leadership skill set, learn from decades-long industry leaders, and develop their network of connections, a press release stated. The fourth group of fellows to enter the program will be selected in the fall of 2025. To apply, click here.

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