Highline Mushrooms' Paul Williamson Reflects on Next Generation Leadership Academy

LEAMINGTON, ON - One of my favorite things about the fresh produce industry is that we are always thinking about the next generation. Designed for up-and-coming leaders in produce, SEPC’s Next Generation Leadership Academy (NGLA) arms participants with the leadership skills needed to navigate evolving industry challenges with a growth mindset. Paul Williamson, Account Manager at Highline Mushrooms, recently reflected on the transformational experience provided by this year-long professional development program.

Paul, what does it mean to you to be part of the Next Generation Leadership Academy?

“With the support of Highline Mushrooms, I was given the opportunity to participate in the Next Generation Leadership Academy. Highline's commitment to investing in people allowed me to focus on the program and grow both personally and professionally.

I entered the program with an open mind and no real expectations, just a willingness to learn, listen, and grow.

Looking back over the past year, I can honestly say the experience has changed me in many ways. It challenged how I think about leadership, how I communicate, and how I approach difficult situations. More importantly, it gave me greater confidence in myself and in my ability to help others grow.

The relationships I built with people across the program have been incredibly valuable, both personally and professionally. They have become true friends, trusted peers, and a group I know I can rely on. Together, we have built a strong sense of trust, support, and shared purpose.

NGLA has given me the confidence to keep becoming the kind of leader I aspire to be. I know I am still on an amazing journey, and I am truly grateful to have been selected.”

What is the most important lesson you have learned so far?

“The biggest lesson I have learned is that before you can effectively lead others, you need to understand yourself first.

Whether you are leading your family, your community, or a team at work, self-awareness is the foundation of strong leadership. I also realized that growth happens when you lean into situations that make you uncomfortable. Really highlighting that vulnerability is not a weakness; it absolutely allows you to learn, build trust, and become a better leader.

If I could share one lesson with others, it would be this: have the courage to face the things that make you uncomfortable. Often, that is where your greatest personal and professional growth happens.”

How do you envision the future of produce leadership?

“I believe the future of produce leadership will be built on collaboration, courage, and putting people first.

Every person we work with is dealing with their own challenges. As leaders, we need to remember to be human, support one another, and create workplaces where people feel comfortable speaking up, sharing ideas, and learning from mistakes.

Sometimes our instincts tell us something is not right before we have all the facts. It takes courage to ask difficult questions or challenge the status quo, but that kind of leadership creates stronger teams and better outcomes.”

How do you hope to further evolve your own leadership following the NGLA program?

“My own journey into the produce industry was not traditional. I started my career in IT before moving into packaging and eventually into fresh produce. Along the way, I have experienced both the very best and some of the more challenging sides of our industry. Those experiences have shaped the type of leader I want to become: someone who creates an environment where people feel respected, supported, and encouraged to grow.

Most importantly, I never lose sight of why we do what we do. Every day, our industry provides fresh, healthy, nutritious food to millions of people across North America. I am proud to tell my children this is the industry I work in and that, in some small way, I am helping feed families. That is meaningful to me.

As I continue to develop as a leader, my goal is simple: to leave the industry better than I found it. I have seen some of the more difficult aspects of our industry, and those experiences have reinforced my commitment to creating a more positive, collaborative, and supportive environment for others. If I can help the next generation of leaders feel valued, have better experiences, and build long, successful careers in produce, I will consider that one of my greatest achievements.”

Cheers to our industry for continuing to sow the seeds of growth and leadership evolution, one collaborative effort after another.