PALM DESERT, Calif. — For the first time in the award’s history, the Equitable Food Initiative, in partnership with The Packer, has named two deserving people as the Farmworkers of the Year: Maria Barbara Resendiz Martinez of GoodFarms and Jesús Gutiérrez Manuel of Stemilt Growers. The national recognition program that honors farmworkers for their exceptional leadership, contributions and impact on the fresh produce industry was announced May 29 at the 2026 West Coast Produce Expo.
From Strawberry Picker to Crew Foreman
Affectionately known as “Barbi,” Resendiz Martinez was nominated for the second year in a row. Her organization has recognized her remarkable professional trajectory, noting that she began as a strawberry picker and advanced to her current role as crew foreman.
GoodFarms also highlights how Resendiz Martinez is a pillar of its organization, noting her 20 years of agricultural experience and 16 years of unwavering loyalty to the company. GoodFarms describes her as a leader who “teaches by example without fear,” earning the deep respect of her peers by demonstrating that she is there in the trenches with them. The organization praises her unique ability to remain neutral and fair, operating under the philosophy that for the industry to function, everyone must win.
Beyond her character, GoodFarms lauds her technical and managerial impact; she famously took a small project of two people and, through her own processes and program development, scaled it into a thriving department of 30. By utilizing untapped resources and saving the company significant costs, Resendiz Martinez has shown that she is not only an intelligent strategist but a transformative force within the community and the agricultural field.
Resendiz Martinez has also been asked to share her experience as a farmworker for national media, reminding the world that agricultural work is an essential service to society. She advocates for consumer awareness, highlighting the human hands and family sacrifices behind every beautiful presentation of fruit found in stores.
She famously said, “If agriculture stops, what are we all going to eat?” — a reminder that she views her work not just as a job but also as an essential service to society. Her perspective that “no one else but those of us who work in agriculture know what it takes to work in that field” makes her the perfect bridge between the farm and the consumer.
“I can’t think of a better ambassador for the industry; she is beyond worthy of being a winner,” says nominator Christina Herrick, produce editor for The Packer. “I interviewed Barbi (Maria) as part of a labor story, and I was immediately struck by her profound passion for her role. She is an incredible communicator who speaks with rare clarity about the challenges and opportunities facing farmworkers today.”
Registered Nurse Brings Health Training and Innovation to the Field
Jesús Gutiérrez Manuel, an H-2A guest worker and harvester with Stemilt Growers, began his career as a field picker and has since been promoted to quality checker and now crew leader for the company.
“His story reflects job mobility based on merit, responsibility and commitment to excellence,” says colleague Martin Casimiro.
Nominators cite Gutiérrez Manuel’s hard work, perseverance and his relentless pursuit of innovation and professional excellence as key traits. He helped develop a strategic framework designed to improve efficiency and resilience throughout the supply chain. He is furthering his impact by also working to become an agricultural consultant.
Gutiérrez Manuel has been recognized by Cierto Global MX, a labor recruiting organization, which nominators say highlights his evolution from field worker to crew leader and demonstrates a commitment to his professional career in agriculture.
Nominators recognize that Gutiérrez Manuel’s ability to integrate and guide fellow workers with effective communication helps to foster a positive work environment and respect while ensuring goals are achieved efficiently and safely.
“Jesús has demonstrated that the field is not merely a workplace, but a space where opportunities are built, where one learns something new every day and where one grows — both as a person and as a professional,” Casimiro says.
Gutiérrez Manuel is also a registered nurse, which nominators say helps influence his approach to hygiene, safety and sanitation while in the field. He also seeks to empower his colleagues and their families through education and pre-hospital health training. Nominators say Gutiérrez Manuel serves as a bridge between operational productivity and human welfare and embodies the modern agricultural professional: innovative, compassionate and deeply committed to the advancement of the entire farming community.
Gutiérrez Manuel actively shares his knowledge and experience, establishing himself as a leading figure both in the field and beyond. He has been invited to speak about innovation and technology by the International Horticultural Alliance for the Promotion of Social Responsibility.
“These engagements position him as an exemplary figure for his colleagues and for the broader agricultural community,” Casimiro says.
Gutiérrez Manuel has also joined the EFI framework, through which he seeks to continue making comprehensive contributions to the agricultural sector.
“His commitment extends far beyond simply putting in a day’s work: He looks out for his team, respects the contributions of every colleague and always strives to do things right — even when no one is watching,” Casimiro says. “He represents those who work hard, learn along the way and contribute to the agricultural sector with responsibility, knowledge and pride.”
History and Legacy of the Farmworker of the Year Award
This is the third year EFI and The Packer have celebrated the critical role of farmworkers in the fresh produce industry. The award recognizes the dedicated and proficient individuals who play a crucial role in the production of the fresh fruits and vegetables we consume on a daily basis. Previous winners include:
- Rafael Teran Melchor of Stemilt Growers (2025)
- Maria de Sagrario Iglesias of FirstFruits Farms (2024)
Each nominee reflects core values that are essential to a thriving workplace culture: humility, teamwork, resilience and a deep concern for others. Through this award, EFI continues its commitment to highlighting the individuals whose work touches every step of the produce supply chain.
The 2026 Farmworker of the Year selection committee includes Jeff Cady, vice president of produce and floral at Top Markets, Lori Taylor, founder and CEO of The Produce Moms; Jane Kuhn, senior director of strategic sourcing and sustainability for Once Upon a Farm and Emily Fragoso, vice president at MIXTEC Group.
Finalists for the 2026 Farmworker of the Year include:
- Magaly Alfaro Avalos, harvest associate for NatureSweet
- Jesús Gutiérrez Manuel, harvester for Stemilt Growers
- Isaias Lepes Arredondo, equipment operator for Zirkle Fruit Co.
- Rogelio Nabor Martinez, foreman for Blue House Farm
- Maria Barbara Resendiz Martinez, crew foreman for GoodFarms
More information about the Farmworker of the Year Award and this year’s finalists is available at equitablefood.org/FWOY.
