We Are Strongest When Connected

The heart of the produce industry has always been its people. Trust and relationships are everything. We are an industry built on legacy and innovation — where long-standing family traditions meet new ideas and fresh perspectives.

Whether your story begins like mine with a grandfather at a terminal market, as a first-generation entrepreneur, or a team that built something new, the common thread is the same: hardworking people who take pride in their craft and keep their communities nourished every day.

That shared commitment is what makes this industry so special, and what makes investing in the next generation of leaders so essential. As our world evolves, our challenges grow more complex, from sustainability and climate to food safety, waste reduction, labor, and equitable access to fresh food.cMeeting those challenges requires more than knowledge; it requires leadership. And few industries invest in future talent with the same level of care, generosity and authenticity as fresh produce.

One shining example of that investment is the International Fresh Produce Association’s (IFPA) Leadership Program, sponsored by Corteva Agriscience. Now entering its 30th year, it remains the premier leadership development experience for the global fresh produce and floral industries.

Each year, 12 professionals embark on a year-long journey to strengthen leadership skills, build business relationships, deepen understanding of government and public affairs, and amplify our industry’s collective voice.

As a member of the Class 29 cohort, I experienced firsthand our community’s dedication to its people. Over the course of a year, we explored every part of the supply chain, from farms and distribution centers to retail operations and government offices.

Industry leaders generously opened their doors to share their stories, challenges and vision for what lies ahead. Alongside these visits, our professional development sessions, hands-on exercises, media training, and reflection challenged us to lead with confidence and purpose. Every experience pushed us in new ways and shaped us both personally and professionally.

Each stop revealed a different aspect of the produce world. On one farm visit, we saw the future in action as a son learned side by side with his mother, preparing to take the reins.

At a distribution facility, technology and innovation were on full display, improving efficiency while preserving quality. We joined roundtable discussions about policy and trade, hearing firsthand how tariffs, regulations, and supply chain shifts impact growers, shippers, and consumers alike.

Those conversations continued on Capitol Hill, meeting with lawmakers to advocate for key issues shaping the future of fresh. Every experience deepened our understanding of this industry’s interconnected network.

That sense of unity was mirrored within Class 29 and reaffirmed that we are strongest when we are connected. Learning alongside my classmates was one of the most meaningful parts of the journey. Each person brought a unique background, perspective, and strength to the table, showing how much we gain when we listen and collaborate.

What we built together as a class reflects something much larger — a network that continues to expand long after graduation. The alumni, now spanning nearly three decades, stand as proof of how deeply this industry invests in its future.

Their continued guidance reminds us that people remain at the center of everything we do. None of this would be possible without the commitment of those who champion emerging leaders — from Corteva Agriscience, the program’s sponsor, to IFPA’s dedicated team, and the many produce professionals who continue to inspire others. Their support ensures that the next generation is prepared to lead the industry forward.

Looking ahead, adaptability will be essential to building on that foundation. With shifting consumer expectations, supply chain pressures, and advances in technology and AI, our landscape is changing rapidly. The next wave of leadership will need to navigate that change, embracing innovation while staying grounded in the principles that define us.

Whether it’s adopting sustainable practices, leveraging data, or responding to market shifts, our willingness to adapt will determine our success. The future belongs to those who remain proactive, open-minded, and eager to keep learning.

At its core, the produce industry is about people — where relationships, integrity and shared purpose guide our work. Programs like the IFPA Leadership Program strengthen that legacy by fostering connection and growth across the industry. Through continued learning and collaboration, we can carry forward the values that make this community so extraordinary and ensure our field continues to flourish.

The future of fresh is bright, and it is ours to nourish, ensuring every business, every story, and every brand continues to thrive for generations to come.

Stephanie Tramutola is the first female in the family working at A&J Produce Corp., Bronx, NY. The company was started in 1977 by her grandfather, John Tramutola, and his partners. Today, A&J Produce is one of the largest wholesalers of fresh fruit and vegetables in the Hunts Point Terminal Market, servicing New York and the northeast region.