CARLSBAD, CA - There’s no finish line for personal growth. The beauty of Emily Zirkle’s statement to me is that it implies a constant intention, maintenance, and excavation—no matter where a person is in their personal and professional journeys. Emily, Business Development at Rainier Fruit Company, is a passionate advocate for learning and unlearning, often simultaneously. As we approach the Women’s Fresh Perspectives Conference April 6–8, 2026, she joins me to look back at the coveted program—and forward—as the event draws near.
“Now that I’m a few years into being intentional about bettering myself, I can’t wait to talk with my peers about what they’ve found helpful on their journeys and share what I’ve found helpful myself. I’ve found it’s easy to keep growth a solitary thing, so I’m always looking for chances to make it communal,” Emily reflects. “What really draws me to Women’s Fresh Perspectives is the strength and caliber of programs. This is no tea party social; what’s shared and discussed is real—challenging the status quo and traditionally ‘taboo’ topics. If taken to heart, the perspectives can and will be deeply transformational both professionally and personally.”
As someone who has attended Women’s Fresh Perspectives before, there is much that is drawing Emily back—from lessons and perspectives to relationships—all of which have helped her grow her career.
“My biggest takeaway from the conference I attended was that it’s worth it to put yourself out there, imperfections and messiness and all,” Emily expresses. “It’s easy to minimize ourselves, especially as women, and instead let our fears talk us out of sharing what we think or how we feel. Seeing strong women in high places share that they, too, still struggle with confidence was incredibly moving. Ever since, I’ve worked hard to be courageous and lean in even when it’s scary.”
Strengthening and expanding support networks within the fresh produce industry is also an invaluable part of the Women’s Fresh Perspectives program. But Emily takes it one step further to spotlight someone who is constantly making space for other women at the table.
“I can’t talk about support networks without shouting out Carrie Mack for using her influence to bring so many women from our industry into the fold,” she says. “Thanks to her nudging our organization to attend, colleagues of mine and I have connected with so many of our peers in a way that only this produce industry-wide conference can. Some of us are rivals on the playing field, of course, but supporting each other off the field is incredibly valuable.”
Emily’s excitement about the upcoming conference is contagious, and I can’t wait to see her story in action this April.
See you all there!
Companies in this Story
Rainier Fruit Company
For over a century, Rainier Fruit Company has been producing premium Northwest fruit that consistently appeals to…
