Leadership starts here.

The application period for Class 3 will open April 29!

The Blueberry Industry Leadership Program, launched in March 2021, is designed to elevate up-and-coming leaders in the blueberry industry by providing in-depth training, industry education and connection to other ag leaders for passionate blueberry professionals across the supply chain.

What fellows will experience and learn:

• Immersive personalized leadership training
• Knowledge sharing from industry veterans and thought-leaders
• Innovation and technology deep-dive
• Impacts of advancements in health and nutrition
• Presentation and media training
• How to build business relationships and activate your network within the industry
• Camaraderie among fellows to create a lifelong support network

Is this program right for me?

The best candidates for the Blueberry Industry Leadership Program are passionate individuals who want to have an active role in leading the next era of growth for blueberries. Growers (domestic and international), processors, handlers, exporters and buyers are eligible to apply.

Program Commitment

Participation in the USHBC Blueberry Industry Leadership Program requires significant commitment by selected candidates and their employers.

• Employer/employee commitment: Applicants must be currently employed by a company or organization with involvement in the highbush blueberry industry. Up to one applicant per company will be selected to participate in the program. In addition, participants must commit to complete the program under the employment of their current company. If a participant changes companies during the program year, they must withdraw from the program.
• Program fee: Candidates or their sponsoring organization must also agree to pay the program fee of $2,500, if selected, to be used toward program expenses and materials. If a candidate is unable to pay the program fee, the opportunity to participate in the program will be forfeited. Payment instructions will be provided following the selection process.
• Attendance and participation: Participants must agree to fulfill the entire program, including travel for in-person sessions. You’ll be asked to confirm your availability and commitment to attending the sessions as outlined in the anticipated schedule below in the application form. If a participant fails to attend at least 90% of sessions, they will not be able to graduate from the program. Exceptions will be made for major life events or extenuating circumstances.

Program Schedule: Class 3

The program schedule is tentative and subject to slight adjustments. Please note both virtual and in-person dates and timing.

In addition to participating in the schedule, program fellows will complete a capstone project that addresses an important blueberry industry issue of their choosing. Following the program kick-off, topics must be submitted for approval by the selection committee.

Ready to take the next step in your leadership journey? Apply today.

Program Application

The application period for Class 3 will open April 29!

Meet the Members of Class #2

Cecilia Allende
Sunny Valley International

Chad Don
Oasis Farms

Joseph Klick
Naturipe Farms

Ben Lahr
Driscoll’s

Kolby Lewis
Blue Raeven Farms

Katiuska Morales
Camposol Fresh USA

Sarah Quackenbush
North Bay Produce

Ranjeet Randhawa
Fall Creek

Kyle Straughn
Straughn Farms

Joel Whitehead
Wish Farms

For any questions, please contact Amanda Griffin, vice president of engagement and education, at [email protected]; CC [email protected].