Ready Pac Associate Selected For FPFC Apprentice Program

Irwindale, Calif. – Billy Pasos was selected out of many entries to be one of 12 members of the inaugural class of the new Fresh Produce & Floral Council’s (FPFC) Apprentice program.  The program is sponsored by Ready Pac Founder, Dennis Gertmenian, who donated $15,000 for program expenses and activities.  The FPFC Apprentice program was established to provide a more in-depth introduction to the supply chain and produce industry.  In order to be successful, Billy and other participants will be responsible for the educational, social, and service elements of the program.

“There are so many talented people who want to grow within the produce business. The FPFC Apprentice Program allows them a chance to explore what makes the industry work, and develop their career as a result. It is meaningful to me to provide the opportunity for the next generation to be a part of this incredible industry,” says Gertmenian.

The program is a 9 month commitment, and the objective is to educate and develop professionals through tours, seminars, panel discussions, cooperative projects and exposure to the social and service network of the industry.  Billy and the other 11 members will participate in many service projects for the FPFC, partake in scheduled events like partnering with the City of Hope, and receive industry mentoring.

Billy, who grew up in Azusa, CA, started with Ready Pac Foods, Inc. soon after high school. He never imagined as a young kid, he would be celebrating 10 years with the company this June.  His tenacity and fire to develop in his career has led him to hold many responsibilities at Ready Pac, including roles in Operations, Shipping, Procurement, and now Produce Buying.

Billy’s manager, Sean McClure, noticed that he was always looking for new opportunities in the industry, and after learning more about the FPFC Apprentice program, he was encouraged to apply. Billy shares with his colleagues that he is honored to have been chosen, and he looks forward to learning more about the industry, networking and, most of all, volunteering.

“Billy is a talented, hard-working individual who has blossomed in his career path, and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this opportunity.  He has the support of this team here at Ready Pac, and we look forward to seeing him do some great things as a result of this program,” says Sean McClure, Ready Pac Specialties Procurement Manager.

COMPANY BIO: California based Ready Pac is one of the nation’s top producers of convenience fresh foods, including fresh-cut produce. With processing facilities throughout the United States, Ready Pac’s award-winning salads, wraps, snacks, fresh cut fruit and vegetables are distributed to supermarkets and restaurant chains across North America. For more information, please visit www.ReadyPac.com.

Source: Ready Pac