Rising Stars

Up-and-comers show the industry has a bright future

While the fresh produce industry is steeped in tradition and filled with longtime leaders and legends, The Packer feels it’s equally important to note that continued success depends on the next generation of leadership.

Rising Stars: Joe Cimino

Joe Cimino says he has been having the time of his life, since 1989. That’s when he first got into the produce business full time, though he’s been around the industry his entire life.

Rising Stars: David Fausset

David Fausset didn’t plan on a career in produce, but after one summer internship he was hooked.

Rising Stars: Nick Mascari

For Nick Mascari, 32, produce is a family passion, and he’s no stranger to the hard work that success in this industry requires. In fact, since he was a young boy he has witnessed the dedication it took to build Indianapolis Fruit Co. Inc., Indianapolis.

Rising Stars: Audra Pura

As someone who grew up on a farm, it seems unlikely Audra Pura, 30, would be surprised to find herself in a career rooted in agriculture. Her first job, at age 5, was cleaning mud off of workers’ boots at her father’s farm. Still, she says she never expected this career path.

Rising Stars: Jorge Quintero Jr.

Jorge Quintero Jr., 31, had his first experience in the produce industry when he was only about 5 years old.

Rising Stars: Dan Vena

Dan Vena, 33, started working for the family business, John Vena Inc., Philadelphia, at 12 years old, but after college, he spent a year outside the industry at a job with a computer leasing firm. He was soon pulled back into the produce industry, however.