This year Choptank renewed its commitment to the program, for an additional three years. “Students spend a day here at Choptank as part of the intern-for-a-day component of the program, where they get an introduction, observe sales people, are taught the ins and outs of our business, and then have to write a report,” explains Sonny Hopkins, associate director of sales at Choptank. “Later, they participate in a phone call with me or Geoff Turner (our CEO) and a Salisbury grad, and try to sell our product to us.”
Many of the students who entered the program come back to Choptank after graduation. In an era of scarce talent in the produce industry, it’s a win-win for Choptank, Salisbury University, and the students.
End Notes
Produce demand in Maryland, Washington DC, and nearby Virginia continues to climb as the nation turns its collective focus to healthful eating.
Fortunately, Maryland’s growers and wholesalers are more than happy to provide a wide range of fruits, vegetables, and value-added products to retailers, restaurants, institutions, and ultimately consumers.
Image: Alexander Raths/Shutterstock.com
