Since 2010 the Canadian Produce Marketing Association has provided a unique opportunity to “rising stars” of the produce industry at the yearly CPMA convention by affording them a focused mentoring program designed to accelerate their professional development.

Calgary, site of the 91st Annual CPMA Convention and Trade Show, will welcome 15 PFP candidates to its April event.

“It’s always a pleasure to meet the rising stars in our industry who join us for the Passion for Produce Program,” said Ron Lemaire, president of CPMA.

“PFP takes place in a fun and relaxed setting where participants receive mentoring, meet produce industry leaders through networking events and increase the scope of their knowledge by meeting the different exhibitors on the trade show floor,” he continued.

The Calgary skyline lit up at night.“We’re thrilled to have these 15 participants joining us in Calgary,” Lemaire added.

During the April 12-14 CPMA convention, PFP candidates will connect with industry leaders/mentors, participate in off-site tours, interactive sessions, networking events and more as they learn about the fresh produce industry in Canada.

They also will gain insight into the industry through first-hand experiences, discussions, and networking, all of which goes back to the workplace with them.

The goal of the program is to give the candidates both a broader understanding of the industry and also renewed enthusiasm for their roles in it.

Over the years, the candidates have developed lasting relationships with their mentors as well as with fellow candidates and other industry leaders.

The program to date has mentored 84 candidates.

This year’s “rising stars” candidates are Adrianna Herrera of The Oppenheimer Group; Ashley Beck of Krown Produce; Cameron Sungail of The Giumarra Cos.; Carsten Hickey of Thomas Fresh Inc.; Chris Moore of Loblaw Cos.; Don Han of Star Produce Ltd.; Eric Niu of Fresh Direct Produce Ltd.; Jessica Elenko of Bolthouse Farms Inc.; Josh Mastronardi of Red Sun Farms; Julie Lefort of Quebec Produce Marketing Association/Les Serres Lefort; Kristina Goodall of NFI Canada; Matthew Towe of Peak of the Market; Melissa Mossuto of Walmart Canada Corp.; Michael Hiltz of Sliced FC Ltd.; and Tim Carruesco of Markon Cooperative Inc.