Kyle McMillan, 36

With over 13 years of experience at the International Fresh Produce Association, McMillan has built her career at the intersection of logistics, creativity, and people-first leadership. She started as a trade show planner in 2011, cutting her teeth on exhibitor communications, database management, and behind-the-scenes logistics. Her knack for streamlining processes and building strong exhibitor relationships earned her a promotion to trade show manager in 2016, where she managed logistics for more than 1,400 exhibitors annually, implemented Buyer Roundtables into IFPA events, and led initiatives that generated over $300,000 in revenue.

When the world shifted in 2020, she pivoted into a marketing and events execution manager position, gaining vital experience in communications and virtual programming to keep the association’s audience connected and its events thriving. She returned to her trade show roots in 2022 as event manager, bringing a more holistic, cross-functional perspective to event strategy. In 2023, she was named director of trade shows where she is responsible for delivering large-scale experiences that exceed expectations, drive results, and bring the industry together in meaningful ways.

Q: How did you begin working in the produce industry and why?

I took a course on conventions at Virginia Tech and instantly knew I was meant for large-scale events — not weddings, not galas, but the kind of experiences that bring thousands of people together with purpose. Once I made that shift, I came across a job posting at PMA (now IFPA), just down the street from where I grew up. It felt like fate. My first day on the job was PMA’s Fresh Summit. Talk about a trial by fire. The energy on that show floor was electric. I was blown away by the creativity of the booths, the innovation on display, and, of course, the incredible flavors I got to taste. I remember walking the floor wide-eyed, thinking, “This is it. This is where I want to be.”

Q: What do you know now you wish you knew when you first started your career?

That you don’t have to have all the answers to be successful, you just have to be willing to ask great questions and surround yourself with people who inspire you to grow. Early on, I thought leadership meant having everything figured out, but I’ve learned it’s really about listening, adapting, and building strong, trusting teams.

Q: What is the one thing in your business that you are most passionate about?

Giving back to the community is hands-down what I’m most passionate about. Each year, we partner with local food banks to donate as much fresh product from our show floors as possible. In 2024, I extended that mission to floral, partnering with 20 nonprofit and charity organizations to donate 8.5 tons of flowers. From DIY activities in senior centers to churches, Girl Scouts, hurricane victims, and single moms, it was amazing to be able to spread the joy of our show throughout the community. Knowing that our events can have a meaningful ripple effect beyond the show floor is incredibly fulfilling — and it’s a tradition I plan to grow every year.

Q: What challenges and opportunities do you see for the future of the industry?

One of our biggest challenges is also one of our greatest opportunities: keeping up with rapid change while staying true to our roots. From shifting consumer preferences and supply chain pressures to climate impacts and labor shortages, our industry is navigating a lot. But with those challenges comes incredible opportunity — especially in innovation, sustainability and storytelling.