The application period is now open for the 19th annual class of the United Fresh Produce Industry Leadership Program, presented by the United Fresh Foundation’s Center for Leadership Excellence. The program, made possible through a generous grant from DuPont Crop Protection, is a special opportunity for United Fresh members to advance their leadership skills and knowledge.

Launched in 1995, the Produce Industry Leadership Program is the only ongoing, fully paid leadership program for the produce industry. The program is developed around the four fundamental goals of leadership development, business relationships, government and public affairs, and media and public relations.

During the year-long fellowship, participants will take part in a series of customized trips which include face-to-face meetings with leading industry players, hands-on training with top industry experts and educators, interactive experiences with influential leaders in Washington and more. This year's schedule will feature expansive trips to Michigan, Ontario, Washington, D.C. ; Wilmington, Del.; Yuma, Ariz.; and Chicago. The class will graduate at the 2014 United Fresh Convention.

Participation in the program is limited to 12 fellows who are selected by an Advisory Committee, chaired this year by United Fresh Board member and program alumnus Lisa Strube of Strube Celery & Vegetable Company. The fellows are chosen from a broad cross-section of the industry to represent the breadth of the United Fresh membership. Since the program’s inception, more than 200 industry members have participated.

“The program is a year-long exploration of the many facets of the produce industry while teaching the professional skills and personal development that are vital to success,” said Strube. “It is a life-changing experience and an opportunity that I recommend to anyone who is committed to advancing their career.”

Candidates interested in applying for the program can download information and an application at unitedfreshfoundation.org. The deadline for applications is Monday, March 11, 2013. The Leadership Program is an exclusive program for United Fresh members only. There is no cost to participate in the program and all regular expenses are covered by the program. For more information, please contact Shannon Young, United Fresh education manager, at [email protected] or 202-303-3405.