The fresh produce industry is taking women in fresh produce leadership seriously — and the results are impossible to ignore. The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) recently wrapped up its 2026 Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference, which sold out for the fourth consecutive year.
More than 200 professionals from across the fresh produce and floral supply chain attended three days of dynamic programming. The event brought together leaders at every career stage for structured sessions and candid conversations.
Key themes drove the agenda forward: leadership and resilience, owning financial value, strategic negotiation, and preventing burnout. Together, these topics tackled the real challenges women navigate daily in a fast-moving industry.
A Stage Built for Women in Fresh Produce Leadership
IFPA designed the conference to create space where meaningful dialogue could thrive. Attendees engaged across roles and experience levels, building the kind of cross-functional relationships that move careers — and industries — forward.
The association also presented the prestigious Frieda Rapoport Caplan Women’s Fresh Perspectives Scholarship to Val Macias. IFPA honored Macias for driving innovation and positive change within the fresh produce sector.
“This conference provides space for meaningful dialogue and opportunities that support women’s leadership development. The conversations here reflect both the challenges and opportunities facing our industry.”
— Beth Keeton, MBA, Owner and President, Elephant House PR
Keeton added that women are playing a vital role in shaping the industry’s future — and the conference makes that visible.
Year-Round Programs Multiply the Impact
The annual conference is just one piece of IFPA’s broader Women’s Fresh Perspectives initiative. The association runs a robust portfolio of programs designed to sustain momentum well beyond a single event.
Its Women’s Fresh Perspectives Mentoring Program delivers structured mentorship through two annual cohorts. Participants receive consistent guidance and career development support throughout the year.
“Moments of connection at events are powerful, but programs like this extend that impact far beyond a single conversation. When we invest in people, they bring that growth back to their organizations.”
— Carrie Mack, Senior Sourcing Manager, Walmart
Additionally, IFPA continues to expand its Women’s Fresh Perspectives Regional Events. These gatherings bring professionals together in accessible, local settings — meeting participants where they are and building grassroots networks across communities.
Mack pointed to the ripple effect of investing in people — a force she believes ultimately strengthens the entire industry.
Related Article: IFPA’s 2026 Fresh Produce Policy Agenda Sets Bold Industry Priorities
Diversity and Development Drive Industry Forward
The continued growth of the Women’s Fresh Perspectives portfolio aligns with broader trends reshaping how the industry thinks about talent. Workforce development, leadership diversity, and professional networking are no longer optional; they are strategic priorities.
By combining national programming, mentorship, and regional engagement, IFPA ensures that women at every stage of their careers have a clear path for growth. The association targets sustained participation, not just attendance spikes.
As the 2026 conference draws to a close, IFPA turns its focus to upcoming mentoring cohorts, regional events, and leadership initiatives. The work of building a stronger, more inclusive industry does not pause, and neither does the momentum.