Blueberry Leadership Program Graduates Third Class of Fellows, Opens Applications for Class 4
The US Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) is proud to announce the graduation of the third class of fellows in its Blueberry Industry Leadership Program. The graduation took place today at The Blueberry Convention in Seattle.
The event marks the culmination of one year of hands-on learning, immersive industry experiences and professional development designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders in the blueberry industry.
“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,” said Amanda Griffin, vice president of engagement and education for the USHBC and the North American Blueberry Council (NABC).
As part of their graduation, Class 3 fellows presented their capstone project — a comprehensive educational toolkit for schools designed to teach children about blueberries. This robust resource includes a 16-page activity book, a memory card game, lifecycle videos, kid-friendly recipes and engaging lessons on how blueberries grow and their health benefits. The toolkit equips 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 during the past year has been a true privilege,” said Mandy Boarman, industry and community engagement manager for USHBC and NABC. “We have no doubt their passion and expertise will be instrumental in guiding the industry toward a successful future.”
Blueberry Leadership Program Class 3 Fellows
- 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
Applications Now Open for Class 4
USHBC is now accepting applications for the fourth class of fellows who will begin their leadership journey in March 2026. The program welcomes 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,” said Griffin. “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.”
About the Program
The Blueberry Industry Leadership Program, generously sponsored by Fall Creek, is the first of its kind in the blueberry industry. It features:
- One year of in-depth leadership development.
- Exposure to key components of the produce supply chain.
- Interaction with industry veterans and stakeholders.
- A capstone project that contributes to the industry’s mission.
Fellows will participate in a combination of in-person and virtual sessions between March 2026 and September 2027, including four in-person gatherings, culminating in a graduation ceremony at the 2027 Blueberry Convention. To support program costs and materials, each fellow pays a $2,500 participation fee.
How to Apply
USHBC is seeking candidates who:
- Are emerging leaders in agriculture, preferably with blueberry industry experience.
- Hold mid-level management roles.
- Have at least five years of experience in agriculture.
- Demonstrate passion, leadership potential and a commitment to the blueberry industry.
Applicants must complete an application form and submit a letter of recommendation. They will be evaluated based on leadership potential, career relevance and overall fit. Finalists will be interviewed in June and July 2026 and selections will be announced shortly after.
Application Deadline: Jan. 1, 2026
Learn more and apply at: ushbc.org/leadership