It’s difficult not to fall in love with the produce industry when you grow up in the Salad Bowl of the World. This idea was further solidified after a recent conversation with Chelsea Perkins, Product Manager at Taylor Farms. With deep roots in California’s Salinas Valley, Chelsea was raised alongside lush fields and diverse crops, cementing agriculture as a cornerstone of her life’s journey.
“My grandparents were deeply involved in the produce industry; they even ran a small berry operation, so I spent much of my childhood immersed in agriculture alongside them, picking and snacking on berries straight from the stem,” Chelsea told me with a youthful grin.
When she reached high school, Chelsea’s connection to the industry grew deeper as her mom, Julie Williams, began working in the produce sector as well. This opened a new world of opportunities. Through Julie, Chelsea was able to meet a variety of influential people who worked in different areas of the industry. These contacts were instrumental in exposing her to various aspects of the produce business and potential career paths.
“One of my most pivotal experiences was landing a summer internship at Fresh Express just before starting my senior year in college,” she recalled. “This opportunity was crucial in getting my foot in the door. Through this internship, I gained valuable insights and hands-on experience that fueled my passion for the industry and laid the foundation for my career in produce. The following year, I attended a college job fair, and my category management experience was exactly what Growers Express was looking for. There, I also met a few key mentors, who I still keep in touch with today.”
In addition to the doors Julie opened for her daughter, she gave Chelsea an arsenal of professional tools to carry with her. One of the most pivotal lessons, according to Chelsea, was the importance of a strong work ethic. This has been instrumental in shaping her career and has helped her navigate through various professional challenges.
"One of my most pivotal experiences was landing a summer internship at Fresh Express just before starting my senior year in college."
Chelsea Perkins, Product Manager, Taylor Farms
“Whenever I face tough conversations or decisions, she is one of the first people I turn to for advice. Additionally, she has an infectious laugh and a knack for networking and has introduced me to some amazing individuals in the industry,” Chelsea pointed out.
One of those connections was formed with Deanne Cagnacci, former New Product Development and Packaging Manager at Growers Express. Chelsea met Deanne after joining the workforce right out of college. Working with Deanne, Chelsea said, taught her the importance of creativity, joy, and camaraderie in the workplace.
“Deanne’s positive, fun, bubbly personality drew me toward her. She made work enjoyable and emphasized the importance of friendship in the workplace—a valuable lesson for me. Her ability to deliver information with a joke and a smile made the environment so much more fun,” Chelsea relayed. “Her creativity is also truly inspiring.”
Another prominent mentor and close friend who entered Chelsea’s life after college was Mishalin Modena, Director of Sustainability and Corporate Engagement at Church Brothers Farms. As Chelsea has navigated her career, Mishalin has been the sounding board she has always returned to. Chelsea told me that one of the greatest lessons she has learned from this mentor is the power of adaptability.
“Whenever I face tough conversations or decisions, [my mom] is one of the first people I turn to for advice.”
Chelsea Perkins
“Mishalin always helped me weigh the pros and cons of each opportunity, which was super valuable. She’s been honest with me about what to expect in different situations, and that transparency has helped me make informed decisions. It’s great to have someone who not only supports you but also gives you the real deal when it comes to navigating your career,” Chelsea went on. “Mishalin is also a marketing genius! Her hustle and determination are truly inspiring. She showed me the importance of being proactive, whether it’s in projects or networking. I’ve seen how her go-getter attitude opens doors and creates opportunities. It’s definitely something I strive to emulate.”
Eventually, Chelsea’s produce path led her straight to Taylor Farms. There, she crossed paths with her next mentor: Charis Neves, Director of Innovation and Product. The two have worked closely over the six years Chelsea has spent at Taylor Farms, an experience she describes as transformative.
“Charis has helped elevate my career by opening my eyes to the bigger picture and giving me perspective on how my role impacts the company, thus motivating me to continue to work hard,” Chelsea elaborated. “Charis challenged me in a few specific ways. She would often assign me projects that were outside my comfort zone, pushing me to think creatively and come up with solutions I hadn’t considered before. She encouraged me to take the lead on team presentations, which really helped boost my confidence in public speaking. Her approach really taught me the value of stepping up and taking initiative, and I think that’s been crucial for my growth.”
On a final note, Chelsea took a moment to share some words of advice for those who are just getting their start in produce. Among them: relationships are everything, be approachable, ask questions, and offer help. Perhaps my favorite piece of advice she gave is this:
“Be open to different opportunities in the industry. Your first job probably won’t be your forever job. Over time, you will have a more holistic view of the produce business that advances both your career growth and your employer’s mission. That experience will be invaluable.”
The Mentors
Here is what they have to say about Chelsea...
Julie Williams,
Mother
“I watched Chelsea become a leader and mentor when she began playing sports. She was the captain of the high school softball team and led the squad by example. She ushered in the younger players by showing them the value of hard work. When Chelsea was beginning her transition to the professional workforce, she leaned on those same character traits to become a young leader in ag. She’s proven to be a self-starter and one that can be trusted to complete even the most important projects with little to no oversight. Additionally, Chelsea continues to guide the younger employees and creates an environment for them to be successful. What’s most impressive is her ability to possess a healthy work-family balance. She and her husband, Anthony, are terrific role models for their children. It’s been such a joy watching her grow and become the leader she is now.”
Deanne Cagnacci,
Former New Product Development and Packaging Manager, Growers Express
“I’ll never forget the day Chelsea, a recent California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo graduate at the time, arrived in our Marketing Department. Her beautiful smile, cheerful demeanor, and eager-to-work attitude were contagious from the start and have never faded. Over the years, I’ve watched her grow into an outstanding produce marketing professional. Chelsea has helped shape industry trends by blending creativity, strategy, and a genuine passion for her work. Her journey has been inspiring as she continues to build strong relationships and elevate products with her innovative approach. I look forward to watching her make an even greater impact in the years ahead.”
Charis Neves,
Director of Innovation and Product, Taylor Farms
“Chelsea has been such an incredibly bright and talented person from the moment I met her, but what makes her exceptionally extraordinary is her unending kindness. She approaches everyone and every situation with such a positive attitude. She is not only fast at learning new skills and putting them to work, but she always does it with a smile and an infectious laugh. Chelsea came to Taylor Farms with a solid background in produce but quickly jumped into the role of product manager where she has now become the expert on our team for single-serve bowls while also contributing greatly toward our innovation in salad kits. She is excellent in front of retail customers and is a great communicator. She has grown so much in the six years I have had the pleasure of working with her and I see nothing but a huge future ahead for her.”
Mishalin Modena,
Director of Sustainability and Corporate Engagement, Church Brothers Farms
“Seeing Chelsea grow in the workforce over the years has been an inspiring journey to watch. From day one, she stood out with her intelligence, dedication, and incredible work ethic. Over the years, I’ve watched her evolve into a confident leader, mastering challenges with grace and turning obstacles into opportunities. Chelsea’s hard work has propelled her forward, earning the respect of colleagues and proving herself as a team player along the way. Her growth is a testament to her dedication and passion for learning; she is a gem of a person, both personally and professionally. I’m proud to have been part of Chelsea’s journey and excited for what’s ahead for her.”
