PALM DESERT, Calif. — Rafael Teran Melchor of Stemilt Growers was named the 2025 Farmworker of the Year at West Coast Produce Expo, May 28-30. The national recognition program that honors farmworkers for their exceptional leadership, contributions and impact on the fresh produce industry was created by Equitable Food Initiative in partnership with The Packer.
Now in its second year, the award shines a spotlight on the people who form the backbone of the agricultural workforce and seeks to ensure that the underrecognized voices and accomplishments of farmworkers are elevated and celebrated.
“Rafael represents everything this award is meant to highlight,” said LeAnne Ruzzamenti, EFI’s director of marketing and communications. “His consistency, willingness to overcome challenges and the positive impact he has on his colleagues reflect the profound ways farmworkers shape their teams and companies.”
Melchor, who has worked at Stemilt Growers for nearly 17 years, has been in agriculture for 23 years and is widely respected for his thoughtful mentorship and calm, solutions-oriented approach.
Working in the sanitation department, he goes above and beyond what is asked of him by participating in numerous trainings such as first aid, CPR, forklift, chemical handling and safety response, as well as attending the Food Safety and Sanitation Workshop. There are approximately 25 areas within sanitation that employees can study, and while most workers have trained in one to five of those areas, Melchor has completed all 25.
“Rafa’s work ethic is completely and truly admirable. He is consistently going above and beyond his responsibilities, always taking initiative to finish tasks and take on new challenges,” said Adrián Pantaleón Sandoval, sanitation supervisor at Stemilt. “He is willing to lend a hand when needed and comes to work with a positive attitude, which is contagious to his coworkers.”
Melchor approaches his role in agriculture much like his passion for running — with focus, discipline and unwavering dedication. His commitment recently culminated in qualifying for the Boston Marathon, a testament not only to his physical endurance but also to his mindset of giving everything his best effort.
A trusted colleague and friend, Melchor supports co-workers on the job and invests time outside of work to foster connection and camaraderie. His nominator describes him as someone who brings people together and leads with heart, qualities that exemplify the spirit of the Farmworker of the Year Award.
This year’s winner and four finalists were selected from more than 50 nominations, and they represent a diverse range of contributions to their workplaces and communities. Finalists included:
- Franklin Rolando Carrillo Rodas, Windset Farms
- Guadalupe Huerta de Jesus, Frutos de Huerta Real for Sunset
- Rene Orozco, Lakeside Organic Gardens
- María Bárbara Reséndiz Martínez, Sierra Farms for GoodFarms
“This award is one of the most meaningful recognitions in our industry because it brings attention to those whose efforts are often unseen but are absolutely essential,” said Jennifer Strailey, editorial director of The Packer. “The finalists this year tell powerful stories of leadership, generosity and perseverance — and it’s an honor to help share them.”
Each nominee reflected 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.
More information about the Farmworker of the Year Award and this year’s finalists is available at equitablefood.org/FWOY.
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