SONOMA, CA – The fruit-growing regions of Chile was the destination for 12 members of the United Fresh Produce Association’s annual Produce Industry Leadership class, courtesy of the Chilean Fruit Exporters Association, which is hosting four such educational trips this year.
The group of U.S. produce industry professionals toured orchards, packing houses, exporter’s offices, an inspection site, and the Port of Valparaiso, in addition to being treated to legendary Chilean hospitality.
"These educational tours let the next generation of produce professionals see first-hand the breadth and sophistication of Chile's agricultural sector,” said Tom Tjerandsen, North American Managing Director of the Chilean Fresh Fruit Association. “Stops along the way, whether orchard fields or port facilities, help reinforce our safety practices and demonstrate our commitment to provide high-quality fruit to our customers in North America and beyond.”
The Produce Industry Leadership program was launched in 1995 to provide promising young produce professionals with an opportunity to advance their knowledge and leadership skills. The program is made possible through a grant from DuPont Crop Protection. Those interested in participating in a future class can contact the United Fresh Education Manager on line at: syoung@unitedfresh.org, or by calling (202) 303-3405.
PHOTO (from left to right):
Jeffrey Oberman (United Fresh Produce Association), Mark DeCosta (Costco Wholesale), Sheridan Silver (Mann Packing), Suniti Moudgil (DuPont Crop Protection), Mike Muir (Muir Copper Canyon Farms), Shannon Kyle (Torrey Farms), Megan Chedwick (Church Brothers), Craig Cahill (Allen Lund Company), Joe Cimino (Pro*Act), Brian Jenny (Naturipe Farms), Shannon Young (United Fresh Produce Association), Sam Stewart (WES Pak Sales), Beth Bland Oleson (Georgia Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association), Fernando Balart (ASOEX).
Source: Chilean Fresh Fruit Association
