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are looking to contribute in more meaningful
ways.”
Nicolau, who spends much time with
the participants throughout the year,
witnesses this professionalism firsthand,
stating, “participants continue to wow
Almond Board staff, Board and committees.”
“Our future seems brighter than
ever!” said Nicolau.
Find Your Next Opportunity
As the 2017 Almond Conference
draws near, now is the time to apply for
the Almond Leadership Program.
“I would encourage any professional in
the almond industry to apply for the
program,” said Bays. “The investment of
time in learning more about our industry
will help benefit [your] own career as
well as American agriculture.”
In terms of broadening one’s knowledge,
graduates of the program serve as
non-voting members on ABC committees
the year after graduating.
It is important to note,
however, that program
participation goes beyond
industry involvement and
into the larger community.
For example, participants
raise funds for California
Future Farmers of America
(FFA) ag scholarships
throughout the year. In
addition, this past October
the 2017 class visited Valley
Children’s Hospital in
Madera to “spread a little
almond joy,” as Nicolau
put it, and “help the young
patients create almond art.”
Could today be your day to apply?
“If you feel like you’ve begun to master
your role on the farm or a related field
and want to broaden your knowledge
and involvement in the industry, it’s time
to engage the interview process,” advises
Chance.
Applications for the 2018 Almond
Leadership Program are due by 5:00 p.m.
on Friday, Dec. 8. Visit almonds.com/
leadershipprogram to apply today.
And mark your calendar for “Almond
Leadership Program: Where It’s Taken
Me” on Thursday, Dec. 7 at The Almond
Conference to hear about your next
potential opportunity.
Comments about this article? We want
to hear from you. Feel free to email us at
article@jcsmarketinginc.com
32 West Coast Nut December 2017