PMA program to prepare new industry hires

PMA program to prepare new industry hires

The Center for Growing Talent by PMA is investing deeper into young talent with a new November event for college seniors.

The center affiliated with Produce Marketing Association will host an Immersion Academy “Rooted to Succeed” conference for 100 seniors, representing 10 universities, who are studying a variety of majors from marketing to food safety. 

The academy will be Nov. 7-9 in Dallas.

 

Center board chairman Leonard Batti, vice president of business development for Taylor Farms, said the Immersion Academy is a step beyond an earlier program, Career Pathways.

He said that was more for creating awareness for the produce industry, and this is more about preparing students for a career in the industry.

Center vice president of talent portfolio Alicia Calhoun said the program will cover all travel and registration costs for the students. 

She said the event will start with a produce industry overview then focus on the student’s area of emphasis. It will also work on the students’ interview skills, and then have actual interviews with companies representing the entire produce supply chain.

Calhoun said more than 20 companies have already signed up for the program, and Taylor Farms CEO Bruce Taylor will be in the education program.

Immersion Academy expands on PMA’s successful Career Pathways student attraction programs. Created by Jay Pack and PMA, the original Pack Family Career Pathways program brought the first group of students to Fresh Summit in 2004. 

More details on Immersion Academy can be found at www.growingtalentbypma.org.

 

Latest News

How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards
How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards

In this podcast episode, Advanced Agriscience's Collin Juurakko shares interesting discoveries he's made about how frost crystals form and how that lead to a potential solution for tree-fruit growers across the globe.

Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show
Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show

North Kansas City, Mo.-based Cool Creations LLC had two new products to show off at the Associated Wholesale Grocers' seventh annual Innovation Showcase, March 25-26.

Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division
Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division

Following Department of Justice concerns about competition in the packaged salad market, the companies have abandoned the proposed $308 million deal.

Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list
Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list

Fresh Del Monte is among the honorees on the Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2024 list, recognized for a commitment to quality, sustainability and innovation in fresh produce.

Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring
Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring

West Mexico growers faced a tough fall/winter season, but distributors believe things are looking up for spring with increased supplies and more reasonable prices.

What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar
What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar

"Impact Retail Foodservice 2024" will gather industry experts to discuss opportunities and challenges, as well as share insights for driving growth in the year ahead in one of the hottest departments in grocery.