The Texas International Produce Association is teaming with Equitable Food Initiative (EFI) and CIERTO Global to host two workshops on labor challenges.
The workshops are Sept. 24 at the TIPA office in Mission.
The sessions are free for association members and members of the Texas Vegetable Association, Texas Citrus Mutual and South Texas Onion Committee, according to a news release.
“We’re excited to bring in these expert speakers …” Dante Galeazzi, president and CEO of the Texas association, said in the release.
The first workshop is 9-11 a.m. and focuses on helping Texas growers navigate the H-2A program to fill labor shortages. Attendees will learn the basics about the program, how to ensure compliance, avoid common pitfalls and types of training that can create a seamless staffing transition.
Speakers include CIERTO Global’s Joe Martinez, executive director, and Norma Encinas, H-2A program director.
The second workshop is 1-3 p.m. and is geared to domestic and international grower-shippers and importers to show how workforce development can drive social responsibility and bottom-line results. Attendees will learn about resources to help comply with the Ethical Charter on Responsible Labor Practices.
Speakers include EFI’s Kevin Boyle, director of business and new product development, and Kenton Harmer, director of certification and impact.
Register online here.
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