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IFPA’s Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference sells out for fourth year

The 2026 Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference from the International Fresh Produce Association has officially sold out ahead of its April 6–8 event at the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort in Carlsbad, CA. The conference is the premier leadership event for women across the global fresh produce and floral supply chain.

Designed to accelerate women’s leadership and influence across the industry, the 2026 conference returns with a refreshed agenda focused on building confidence, strengthening professional presence and sustaining long-term success. Now sold out for the fourth consecutive year, the event’s continued growth underscores strong demand for practical leadership development and meaningful connection opportunities for women navigating a traditionally male-dominated field.

IFPA has opened an Early Access List for the 2027 Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference. Individuals who join will receive exclusive registration access one week prior to public registration. Those interested can join on the IFPA website.

Programming Reflects Leadership Realities
The 2026 schedule centers on the skills women need to lead with authority and resilience, from owning their financial value and building strategic relationships to negotiating with clarity and preventing burnout. The conference delivers actionable strategies to help participants strengthen their voice, expand their influence and lead sustainably.

“Strong leaders build strong industries,” said Elyse Lipman, IFPA board chair elect and CEO of Lipman Family Farms. “Our industry is built on people who show up, solve problems, and take care of one another. When we equip women with the tools, conviction and confidence to lead, we strengthen not only individual careers, but the entire future of fresh.”

Featured Workshops & Education Sessions Include:
Women in Leadership: Unplugged with Q&A
Featuring IFPA CEO Cathy Burns and fellow industry leaders, this candid, unscripted discussion offers real-world insights into leadership, career growth, and navigating challenges in the fresh produce and floral supply chain.

Rewrite Your Money Story: How to Transform Your Relationship with Work & Worth
Led by Claire Wasserman, Founder of Ladies Get Paid, this session examines how money beliefs influence confidence and career decisions, equipping participants to advocate for their value and pursue long-term financial growth.

Beyond Small Talk: Building Meaningful Connections That Last
This interactive workshop offers strategies for cultivating authentic professional relationships that move beyond transactional networking, strengthening the connections that support advancement across the fresh produce and floral supply chain.

Stand Your Ground: Negotiating with Confidence, Clarity and Connection
Communication expert Colette Carlson shares practical frameworks for negotiating effectively while maintaining strong relationships, emphasizing clear self-advocacy in high-stakes conversations.

Burn Bright, Not Out: Finding Calm, Clarity & Confidence in the Chaos
Corporate burnout expert and social psychologist Erin Stafford delivers research-backed strategies to sustain energy and resilience amid demanding responsibilities, empowering women to lead without sacrificing well-being.

Each workshop is offered in two time slots, allowing attendees the opportunity to participate in all four sessions during the conference.

Networking Reimagined
This year’s event expands opportunities for meaningful connection, beginning with the Welcome & Opening Reception – a structured networking experience designed to spark engagement from the very start. IFPA encourages intentional introductions and guided conversations that bring together professionals across companies and career levels.

Later, following the Women in Leadership: Unplugged session with CEO Cathy Burns, attendees are invited to the Girls’ Night In Happy Hour. This relaxed, community-focused reception fosters continued dialogue and deeper peer connection.

Together, these experiences go beyond traditional networking, creating space for authentic conversations, mentorship and lasting professional relationships.

“The fact that the conference sold out underscores the demand for meaningful development,” said Co-Chairs of the IFPA Talent Committee Carrie Mack, senior manager of sourcing at Walmart, and Beth Keeton, president of Elephant House PR.“Women in our industry are seeking practical strategies and intentional opportunities to grow, connect and lead with purpose.”

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