Hall of Fame
Farmworker of the Year
In partnership with
The Farmworker of the Year Award was created to elevate farmworker voices and recognize the essential role farmworkers play in producing safe, high-quality food while strengthening agricultural communities. As the program continues to expand, EFI hopes the award serves not only as recognition, but also as a reminder of the expertise, humanity and leadership present throughout the produce industry every day.
This award honors currently active, frontline workers who are essential to our food supply. This award recognizes the dedicated and proficient individuals who play a crucial role in the production of the fresh fruits and vegetables we consume on a daily basis.
Meet the past winners, finalists and nominess:
2026
Meet the Winners
In a historic first for the Farmworker of the Year Award, two exceptional leaders have been named co-recipients of the 2026 honor:
Maria Barbara Resendiz Martinez
GoodFarms
Nominated for a second year in a row, Maria Barbara, crew foreman at Sierra Farms, has been recognized for humility, leadership and her ability to communicate and serve as a bridge between the farm and the consumer.
Rising from a strawberry picker to her current role, Resendiz Martinez is one of only a few women in senior positions. Nominators cite Resendiz Martinez’s ability to remain neutral and fair and how she operates under the core philosophy that for the team to function successfully, everyone must win.
Read more about Maria Barbara in this article.
Jesus Gutierrez Manuel
Stemilt Growers
Jesús is a distinguished agricultural professional with over 15 years of industry experience and a reputation so profound that 12 individuals across multiple organizations nominated him for this year’s award.
In 2024, he received an honorable mention in a prestigious industry innovation challenge for creating a “Decalogue for the Field Professional.” His expertise has made him a sought-after voice in the sector, leading to invitations as a guest panelist at major agricultural anniversaries, where he speaks on the intersection of technology, knowledge and sustainable transformation.
Read more about Jesus in this article.
Meet the Finalists
Meet Some of the Nominees
2025
Meet the Winner
Rafael Terán Melchor
Stemilt Growers
Rafael has worked at Stemilt Growers for nearly 17 years and has been in agriculture for 23 years. He is widely respected for his thoughtful mentorship and calm, solutions-oriented approach.
Working in the sanitation department, he goes above and beyond what is asked of him by participating in numerous trainings such as first aid, CPR, forklift, chemical handling and safety response, as well as attending the Food Safety & Sanitation Workshop. There are approximately 25 areas within sanitation that employees can study and while most workers have been trained in one to five of those areas, Rafael has completed all 25.
Read more about Rafael here.
Meet the Finalists
Meet Some of the Nominees
2024
Meet the Winner
Maria del Sagrario Iglesias
First Fruit Farms
Maria has dedicated her 35 years in agriculture to working with FirstFruits Farms. Throughout her career, she has worked in various roles, from planting and nursery to picking, pruning and packing.
Maria’s extensive experience has provided her with the opportunity to train many of her coworkers, who report that she is known for her willingness to lead and share insights. Those who nominated her noted that her commitment to others extends beyond her professional duties as she frequently volunteers her time to fundraise for coworkers and community members in need.
Read more about Maria here.
Meet the Finalist
Meet Some of the Nominees
To all the farmworkers, sponsors, and partners involved in the Farmworker of the Year program last year, we are deeply grateful for your contributions. Your passion and dedication inspire us and make this program a true celebration of the hard work that goes into bringing fresh fruits and vegetables to our communities.