The Produce Marketing Association’s (PMA) board of directors has voted to approve the creation of the PMA Education Foundation.

The fundamental objectives of the Foundation will be to:

âóè Help industry professionals define their career paths,

âóè Attract new talent into the industry, and

âóè Ensure that the industry has the information it needs to remain competitive.

“When the PMA board met this past April, the consensus was that the industry needs a trusted, recognised, and reliable source for product information, education and training for fresh produce and floral,” said outgoing PMA chairman of the board, Steve Junqueiro of Save Market Supermarkets. He added: “The Foundation will help establish PMA as that source.”

The Foundation will fund programs that increase and enhance the teaching of produce-related courses at colleges and universities around the world; support research, certification, and professional development programs; and provide industry recognition to individuals who master the knowledge and skills the industry requires.

PMA President, Bryan Silbermann, said: “The creation of the PMA Education Foundation fulfills a strategic goal of PMA to be proactive in providing current and future produce industry professionals with the business skills, industry expertise, and supply chain knowledge to help them respond and adapt to a dynamic industry. Creating an integrated approach to professional development will enable us to define clear pathways for new talent to enter our industry,” he added.”

The Foundation’s activities will be supported by tax-deductible contributions and donations. For more information about the foundation visit PMA’s website at www.pma.com.

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