The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council has announced the third cohort of fellows accepted into its Blueberry Industry Leadership Program.
The program, which launched in March 2022, is designed to elevate up-and-coming leaders in the blueberry industry by providing in-depth training, industry education and connections to other ag leaders for passionate blueberry professionals across the supply chain, according to a news release.
“We are thrilled to welcome this group of leaders as the third class of fellows,” said Amanda Griffin, USHBC’s vice president of engagement and education. “Since launching the Blueberry Leadership Program, we have received an overwhelming interest, which always makes the selection process extremely difficult. The USHBC is proud to provide this opportunity to these ag professionals, empowering them to guide the blueberry industry into a bright future.”
Selected as the third class of fellows in the program are:
- Yvan Berrospi, supply chain and operations coordinator, Family Tree Farms.
- Gabriel Bocock, general manager of operations, Bumbleberry Acres.
- Joshua Carlton, farm manager, JLC Farms.
- Sergio Carrasco, production manager, The Fruitist Co.
- Jake Johnson, sales and grower support II, Fall Creek Farm & Nursery.
- Stephanie Kleiner, blueberry product business manager, Driscoll’s.
- Peter Machala, category manager, Wakefern Food Corp.
- Brody Schropp, horticulturist, MBG Marketing.
- Zach Semerikov, food safety and quality assurance manager, Scenic Fruit.
- Jessica Silver, commercial manager, United Exports Sales and Marketing.
USHBC says the Blueberry Industry Leadership Program helps fellows grow their leadership skill set, learn from decades-long industry leaders and develop their network of connections. The fourth group of fellows to enter the program will be selected in fall 2025.
Related link: More information on the Blueberry Industry Leadership Program and applying
