Craig Matsinger, 40
Operations Manager , Pacific Trellis Fruit , Los Angeles, CA
June 10, 2025 | 2 min to read
SHORT BIO
Hometown: National Park, NJ
Hobbies: Fishing, Football, Camping
Family/Community: Married, 2 sons
Motto in life: Let’s go!
Born and raised in South Jersey, Matsinger started his produce career in 2009, answering an online ad for a produce inspector for Fresh Pro Inspections, working primarily out of Lucca Cold Storage in Vineland, NJ. Over the next few years, he gained knowledge of produce, but also warehousing and the supply chain.
In 2014, he joined A.J. Trucco as their outbound quality coordinator within the same location. At Trucco, he oversaw the company’s quality control program, ensuring specs and conditions were to customer standards. By 2018, he was promoted to general operations, managing all departments and successfully helping move the company to its current independent facility. Then, in 2020, he took a position in operations at Pacific Trellis Fruit.
In 2022, he moved to his current position, where he now handles day-to-day port operations and coordinates warehouse DCs and logistical providers. He manages a team of three for the company’s East Coast operation, importing millions of boxes per year.
Q: How did you begin working in the produce industry and why?
It was completely by chance. I answered a job post on Craigslist, not knowing exactly what to expect. From the start, I saw the potential this industry has for those who are dedicated, and was immediately drawn in.
Q: What do you know now you wish you knew when you first started your career?
Patience, as that alone can make or break a situation.
Q: What advice would you give someone new to the produce industry?
Don’t burn bridges; this industry is close-knit.
Q: What is the one thing in your business that you are most passionate about?
Working through complex issues with my team and solving problems. I have a great team. We all have each other’s backs.
Q: How has the industry changed during your tenure?
Regulations and hair nets were nonexistent when I started. Also, there is more technicality and emphasis placed on product spec, quality, and storage than when I first started.
Q: What challenges and opportunities do you see for the future of the industry?
Operational costs are rising, and there will be an opportunity in the development of new strategies to mitigate and lower.
NOMINEES
