By Andi Anderson
Purdue University recently welcomed a group of emerging leaders from the fresh produce industry for an educational visit focused on agricultural innovation, research, and workforce development.
The event took place at the Purdue Student Farm and the Overbeck Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) Facility, where participants explored how modern research and education are helping address challenges across the produce supply chain.
The visit was part of the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) Produce Industry Leadership Program, a year-long initiative designed to develop future leaders within the fresh produce and floral industries. The program provides participants with opportunities for professional growth, industry exposure, and networking with experts from across the agricultural sector.
During the visit, Madison Hopper, Creative Content Manager at Equifruit in Montreal, Canada, and the presiding fellow for the visit, introduced Petrus Langenhoven, Vegetable Extension Specialist; Chris Adair, Farm Manager; and Isaac Damer, Hydroponics Research Administrator, who shared insights into Purdue University's teaching, research, and Extension efforts.
The 13-member delegation represented a diverse group of professionals from different regions and sectors of the produce industry. Participants traveled from several U.S. states, including Colorado, California, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, Texas, Delaware, and Indiana. The group also included representatives from Quebec and Ontario in Canada, as well as Australia.
Industry representation covered nearly every stage of the produce supply chain. Attendees came from grower, packing, marketing, retail, foodservice, agricultural input, and industry service organizations. Companies and organizations represented included Frutura Produce, Flavor Farms, Fowler Packing Company, Pure Flavor, Equifruit, H-E-B, Chick-fil-A, Van Eerden Foodservice, Hort Innovation, Fresh Alliance, Ten Acre Marketing, IFPA, and Corteva. Participants held positions in sustainability, marketing, education, business development, sales, and distribution, enabling them to connect university research with real-world industry needs.
At the Purdue Student Farm, visitors learned how the facility serves as a hands-on learning environment for students. The farm supports undergraduate education, applied vegetable research, and Extension programs that help share agricultural knowledge with growers and communities. Participants also explored the summer internship program, which provides valuable practical experience for students preparing for careers in agriculture.
The delegation discovered how produce grown at the Student Farm contributes to dining and hospitality programs, including supplying fresh produce to The Lawrence restaurant and facilities operated by Purdue's School of Hospitality and Tourism Management.
The tour continued at the Overbeck CEA Facility, where attendees examined advancements in controlled-environment agriculture and hydroponic production systems. These technologies allow crops to be grown efficiently in carefully managed environments throughout the year. Research conducted at the facility focuses on improving production efficiency, enhancing leafy green quality, and supporting year-round food availability.
The visit provided an important opportunity for Purdue University to showcase its contributions to specialty crop production, protected agriculture, and student training. At the same time, industry leaders shared their experiences and discussed the challenges currently facing the fresh produce sector.
By bringing together researchers, educators, and industry professionals, the event highlighted the value of collaboration in advancing innovation and preparing future leaders for the evolving global produce industry.
Photo Credit: purdue-university
Categories: Indiana, Education