Applications for USHBC blueberry leadership program now open

The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) has announced the graduation of the third class of fellows in its Blueberry Industry Leadership Program and is seeking applicants for its fourth class.

The Oct. 10 graduation marks the culmination of a year of hands-on learning, immersive industry experiences and professional development designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders in the blueberry industry, according to a news release.

The next class begins in March. The program includes up to 10 emerging leaders from across the blueberry supply chain who demonstrate a commitment to the industry’s growth and success.

“Our goal for the upcoming year is to continue identifying and empowering future leaders of the blueberry industry,” Amanda Griffin, vice president of engagement and education for the USHBC and the North American Blueberry Council (NABC), said in the release. “As we begin our fourth year of the program, we’re reminded that leadership in agriculture is built through education, collaboration and a commitment to constant improvement. This program helps foster those values, while creating long-lasting relationships that strengthen our industry.”

Fellows will participate in a combination of in-person and virtual sessions culminating in a graduation ceremony at the 2027 Blueberry Convention. To support program costs and materials, each fellow pays a $2,500 participation fee.

“The Blueberry Industry Leadership Program is more than a year of training — it’s an investment in the future of our industry. By equipping emerging leaders with the skills, experiences and networks they need to succeed, we’re ensuring that blueberries remain at the forefront of agriculture, innovation and global growth for generations to come,” Griffin said in the release.

Class three fellows presented their capstone project — a comprehensive educational toolkit for schools designed to teach children about blueberries. The resource includes a 16-page activity book, memory card game, lifecycle videos, kid-friendly recipes and lessons on how blueberries grow and their health benefits. The toolkit provides teachers and parents with a one-stop shop for blueberry education and reflects the fellows’ shared commitment to growing the next generation of blueberry lovers.

“Seeing this talented and inquisitive group of individuals continue to evolve into blueberry industry leaders over the past year has been a true privilege,” Mandy Boarman, USHBC and NABC’s industry and community engagement manager, said in the release. “We have no doubt their passion and expertise will be instrumental in guiding the industry toward a successful future.”

Members of the Blueberry Leadership Program class three fellows included:

• Yvan Berrospi, Family Tree Farms
• Gabriel Bocock, Bumbleberry Acres
• Joshua Carlton, JLC Farms
• Sergio Carrasco, The Fruitist Company
• Jake Johnson, Fall Creek
• Stephanie Kleiner, Driscoll’s
• Peter Machala, Wakefern Food Corp.
• Brody Schropp, MBG Marketing
• Zach Semerikov, Scenic Fruit
• Jessica Silver, United Exports Sales and Marketing

USHBC seeks candidates who are emerging ag leaders, hold mid-level management roles, possess five years of ag experience and demonstrate passion, leadership potential and a commitment to the blueberry industry. Interested candidates can apply for the Blueberry Industry Leadership Program online.