The Southeast Produce Council (SEPC) proudly announces the successful completion of its inaugural Next Generation Leadership Academy’s immersive trip to the Research Triangle region in North Carolina. It was a pivotal experience of the program centered around the theme “Next Era of Agriculture.” The initiative, designed to cultivate emerging leaders in the produce industry, saw participants engage in a transformative exploration of cutting-edge agricultural practices, technological advancements, and sustainable solutions.
The Research Triangle, renowned for its innovation and technological prowess, provided an ideal backdrop for the Next Generation Leadership Academy’s deep dive into the future of agriculture. The program, organized by SEPC, brought together a select group of emerging leaders, each representing a diverse range of talents and perspectives within the produce industry.
During their visit, participants had the unique opportunity to interact with thought leaders, industry experts, and researchers at the forefront of agricultural innovation. The agenda included visits to state-of-the-art research facilities, collaborative sessions with agtech startups, and dialogues with key players in sustainable farming practices.
- North Carolina Department of Agriculture | Steve Troxler Agricultural Sciences Center
- Bayer Crop Science
- Measure to Improve
- BASF Center for Sustainable Ag
- Nufarm
- L&M Companies
- Grocery Shopii
The “Next Era of Agriculture” theme resonated throughout the trip, emphasizing the imperative for the industry to embrace transformative approaches in response to evolving global challenges. Topics such as precision farming, agtech integration, sustainable practices, and supply chain resilience took center stage in discussions and hands-on experiences.
The Research Triangle provided the perfect backdrop for our Next Generation Leadership Academy to explore and envision the future of agriculture. By engaging with pioneers and innovators in the industry, our participants gained invaluable insights into the transformative technologies and sustainable practices that will shape the next era of agriculture.
The trip concluded with a culmination of the Next Generation Leadership Academy’s virtual leadership course facilitated by Ashley Andersen of Dare to Lead™.
SEPC’s commitment to fostering leadership and innovation in the produce sector was evident throughout the trip, with participants expressing enthusiasm for the knowledge gained and relationships forged during this unique experience. As the industry continues to evolve, SEPC remains dedicated to providing platforms for emerging leaders to thrive and drive positive change.
Upon completion of their curriculum, the 2023-2024 Next Generation Leadership Academy participants will be recognized at Southern Exposure on Thursday, March 7th, during SEPC’s Future Generations Celebration Dinner.
The Southeast Produce Council's (SEPC) Next Generation Leadership Academy (NGLA) Class of 2024, SEPC NGLA Committee Chair Raina Nelson, SEPC President David Sherrod, and SEPC Board Member Derek Ennis at the Steve Troxler Agricultural Sciences Center.
About Southeast Produce Council
The Southeast Produce Council (SEPC) sprouted in 1999 when a shared vision for cultivating a nonprofit Southeastern-based produce organization was planted. From the first formal meeting of the SEPC where 100 agriculture, retail, and foodservice professionals gathered, we’ve flourished into a vibrant and innovative organization of over 4,000 industry professionals who reap the benefits of harvesting quality experiences guaranteed to increase the value of their membership. As with farmland, a well-cultivated industry can last for generations, and today, we continue to grow at a steady pace thanks to a broad range of backgrounds and expertise from people like you, creating a more bountiful tomorrow.
Learn the benefits of SEPC membership at seproducecouncil.com.
