30 Years Strong: IFPA Announces Class 30 of Produce Industry Leadership Program

October 28, 2025

WASHINGTON - International Fresh Produce Association proudly announces 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 prestigious program stands as the only ongoing leadership program dedicated to the fresh produce and floral industries. Since its inception in 1995, the program has shaped more than 350 graduates into influential 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. The cohort participants and the community of graduates create an invaluable network that will have a lasting impact on future proofing the industry.”

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 a series of customized trips packed with hands-on training, face-to-face meetings, and exclusive access to IFPA events and industry experts. Each trip offers unique 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.”

IFPA 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 coveted spots available each year to high potential, mid-level produce and floral industry professionals, acceptance into the Leadership Program is a distinguished honor. Beginning November 2025, Class 30 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 questions or additional information on the Produce Industry Leadership Program, contact Nikki Wootten, Education & Program Manager, Talent, IFPA, at nwootten@freshproduce.com or 302-607-2144. 

30 Years Strong: IFPA Announces Class 30 of Produce Industry Leadership Program

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