Category Insights: A 42-year veteran at Wegmans, Joe began his career as a part-time produce clerk and eventually went full time in 1984. He spent 14 years in store operations as a Produce Manager and Assistant Store Manager before moving to the corporate office as a Category Merchant in Grocery in 1998. After 2 years in that role, he became the Wegmans Brand Perishable Manager and finally moved into the position of Produce Category Merchant. During his time in Produce, he has managed almost every category in the department but currently oversees Apples, Pears, Berries and Grapes.

The Path to Influence: Kyle Vowinkel is a decorated FBI Agent, West Point graduate, and former hostage negotiator with 33 years of experience leading in high-stakes environments. One of only five people in FBI history to serve on both the elite Hostage Rescue Team and the Crisis Negotiation Unit, Kyle now equips business leaders to thrive under pressure, communicate with precision, and drive meaningful results. The Path to Influence

Media/Produce Market Trends: Managing Editor for fresh produce publications AndNowUKnow and The Snack Magazine, as well as the specialty foods publication Deli Market News. With over a decade of experience covering the fresh produce, deli, and specialty food industries from a unique trade media perspective, Melissa has blended necessary events, changes, and innovations with a deep passion for storytelling, people, and representing the voices of our industry. AndNowUKnow and The Snack are known for their advocacy, relationship-driving profiles, market trends, staying on the frontlines of the food trade, and reshaping the perception of content creation for the produce business. Attending more than 100 industry events across the U.S. and beyond, Melissa continues to deliver compelling storytelling and coverage that resonates with buyers, suppliers, and decision-makers across the buy-side and supply chain.

Motivational Talk: Javier “Javy” López is a former Major League catcher, best known for his nine seasons with the Atlanta Braves (1995–2003). A three-time All-Star (1996, 1997, 1998), López was instrumental in the Braves’ postseason runs, including their 1995 World Series championship. Renowned for his power-hitting—he hit 43 home runs in 2003, a record single-season high for a catcher at the time—he combined solid defensive skills with clutch postseason performances. López also played for the Baltimore Orioles, St. Louis Cardinals, and Washington Nationals before retiring after the 2007 season. After hanging up his cleats, he turned to coaching and development roles, nurturing the next generation of talent.

The Global Perspective of Table Grapes: Oscar M. Salgado M. is a global expert in table grapes with over 35 years in the fruit industry. An Agricultural Engineer (P.U.C.V.) with an MBA from Cambridge, he currently serves as International Technical Advisor for Proteku and Infruta (AgroFresh Group), leading global technical support since December 2023. He has worked across 20+ countries, driving innovation in fruit quality, post-harvest processes, and strategic marketing. A co-founder of UVANOVA and former viticulture lecturer, he’s also an advocate for women’s inclusion in Chilean agriculture.