The Texas International Produce Association (TIPA) will be hosting two workshops at their corporate headquarters in Mission, Texas on September 24, 2019. The topics will focus on overcoming labor challenges. These sessions are available for free for TIPA members along with Texas Vegetable Association, Texas Citrus Mutual and South Texas Onion Committee members.
The first workshop geared towards Texas Growers will begin from 9:00 am – 11:00 am with the purpose of helping growers successfully navigate the H-2A program to fill labor shortages. Growers are turning to the H-2A program to obtain seasonal workers, but there are a lot of details to consider. Learn the basics about the program, how to ensure compliance, avoid common pitfalls and types of training that can create a seamless staffing transition. Speakers include:
- Joe Martinez, Executive Director, CIERTO Global
- Norma Encinas, H-2A Program Director, CIERTO Global
The second workshop, geared towards both domestic and international grower-shippers and importers, will be held from 1:00 – 3:00 pm with the purpose of showcasing how workforce development drives social responsibility and bottom-line results. TIPA says attendees will learn the importance of workforce development as not only a key component to a social responsibility program but how it can positively impact the organization. Speakers include:
- Kevin Boyle, Director, Business & New Product Development, Equitable Food Initiative
- Kenton Harmer, Director, Certification & Impact, Equitable Food Initiative
Left to right: Joe Martinez, Nancy Encinas, Kevin Boyle, Kenton Harmer
“We’re excited to bring in these expert speakers who can help our growers learn how to maximize the H-2A program to fill labor shortages and also help both our growers and importers to better understand the importance of workforce development programs to prevent food safety issues while improving overall quality,” stated Dante Galeazzi, President & CEO of the Texas International Produce Association.
Industry members should register online to attend the September 24 workshops at the TIPA Headquarters, 901 Business Park Dr, Mission, TX 78572.
For more information:
www.texipa.org