International Fresh Produce Association announced the incoming Class 30 of its Produce Industry Leadership Program, a milestone marking three decades of cultivating the next generation of industry leaders.
Sponsored by Corteva Agriscience™, this program stands as the only ongoing leadership program dedicated to the fresh produce and floral industries. Since its inception in 1995, it has shaped more than 350 graduates into changemakers across the global fresh supply chain.
"This year's cohort is the most diverse representation of segments across the produce and floral supply chain in the history of the program," said IFPA chief strategy officer, Doug Bohr. "This is evidence of the recognition not only of the importance of investing in the professional development of our individual team members but of the incredible value that this program provides for the full industry." 
© IFPA
The program provides a year-long leadership journey for participants to develop career-long connections and deepen their understanding of the industry and how to lead and influence through connections, advocacy, and communications.
Throughout the year, Class 30 will take part in customized trips packed with hands-on training, face-to-face meetings, and exclusive access to IFPA events and industry experts. Each trip offers opportunities to engage directly with thought leaders and explore the inner workings of the global produce and floral landscape.
"Investing in leadership development is investing in the future of our industry," said Joseph Kelsay, North American food safety leader, Corteva. "We're honored to sponsor Class 30 and support IFPA's commitment to cultivating the next generation of passionate, purpose-driven professionals." 
© IFPAIFPA congratulates the incoming Leadership Program, Class 30:
- Rachel Bigby, senior sustainability manager, US operations, Frutura Produce
- Meg Dowley, director of sales, Flavor Farms
- Maile Frelinger, director of business development, Fowler Packing Company
- Wade B. Holland, sr. distribution lead, produce distribution, Chick-fil-A
- Madison Hopper, creative content manager, Equifruit, Inc
- Erin Maggs, director of sales operations, business development, Fresh Texas
- Logan Nicely, executive director of healthy solutions & cool school fresh, Fresh Alliance
- Angela Sommers, account supervisor, Ten Acre Marketing
- Belinda Van Schaik, head of marketing, Hort Innovation
- Jacki Van Eerden, business development manager, Van Eerden Foodservice
- Julia Weber, director of marketing, Pure Flavor
- Jennifer Wiklandour, business unit director - Floral, H-E-B
With only 12 spots available each year to high potential, mid-level produce and floral industry professionals, acceptance into the program is an honor. Beginning November 2025, the participants will embark on a curriculum grounded in the four core focus areas of the program: Leadership Development, Business Relationships, Government & Public Affairs, and Media & Public Communications.
For more information on the program, contact Nikki Wootten, education & program manager, talent, IFPA, at [email protected] or 302-607-2144.
For more information:
Ashley Sempowski
International Fresh Produce Association
[email protected]
https://www.freshproduce.com/
