Recognizing a need in an industry looking for fresh ideas and thoughtful innovation, supply chain management network PRO*ACT is launching a fund to encourage more women to enter the produce industry.
“We’ve seen growers, distributors and our own company benefit from the thoughtful contributions of talented women over the years,” shared Chip Walker, CEO of PRO*ACT. “But we also know this is an industry where women’s representation has lagged behind other industries. We hope this fund is another step to bring more women to a field who needs their perspectives, experiences and leadership.”
Scholarship applications will be open in June for women pursuing a graduate or post-graduate degree while majoring in various industry-related programs, including horticulture, agribusiness and supply chain management.
“The timing for this initiative is right. We want to have workforce representation that empowers our industry to grow exponentially,” added Mackenzie Lovelace, PRO*ACT’s marketing manager who is working with a team from PRO*ACT and its supply chain to award scholarships in August.
The announcement coincides with International Women’s Day (today March 8) and a week where PRO*ACT is celebrating women across the fresh produce supply chain while highlighting on their website and social channels.
Here are five people whose contributions have strengthened PRO*ACT and their partners:
- Joan Daleo, CEO, Ole Tyme Produce
- Meyree Escobar, senior account manager, PRO*ACT
- Penny Schneider, director contract services, Vizient
- Michelle Weech, VP marketing, Hardie’s Fresh Foods
- Julie Laughton, account manager, Taylor Farms
“The workforce landscape is shifting before our very eyes,” said Joan Daleo. “As an industry, we have to continue to be intentional about attracting, mentoring and promoting the talented, diverse and motivated group of personnel who will one day lead our industry.”
“This isn’t about reaching a quota,” adds Walker. “It’s about building companies with the best people while recognizing that too often young women look at our industry--and then look elsewhere. This fund is designed to open that door a bit wider and show that we are serious about building a workforce of the best and the brightest.”
For more information:
Brian Denton
PRO*ACT
Tel: +1 (831) 658-1903
bdenton@proactusa.com
https://www.proactusa.com/