Featured image: NOA Speakers, Heather M. Pichelman (left) and Jill Dunlop (right)
Convention Dates: December 8 – 11, 2024 | Savannah, GA
The National Onion Association (NOA) Annual Convention is fast approaching, and this year’s event in beautiful Savannah, Georgia, promises to be a fantastic gathering filled with valuable insights, hands-on learning, and networking opportunities. Onion professionals—from growers and packers to shippers and allied businesses—will find a robust line-up of expert speakers addressing the latest industry trends, innovations, and regulations that affect their work and businesses. Here’s a preview of the experts scheduled to present, along with some enticing activities that will make this a memorable event.
Featured Speakers and Sessions
Food Safety Committee Welcomes Jill Dunlop for the GAP 2024 Annual Meeting
Jill Dunlop, the GAP Team Lead from the USDA’s Audit Services Branch, AMS Specialty Crops Inspection Division, will lead a vital discussion for food safety advocates. Jill’s work involves enhancing audit programs that facilitate trade in fresh produce and food safety. During the Food Safety Committee meeting, Jill will answer questions and share insights into USDA’s approach to creating robust audit programs, making this a must-attend session for professionals focused on compliance and safe practices in fresh produce.
In-Depth Look at the National Potato and Onion Report
On Monday, December 10, convention attendees will gain an inside perspective on how AMS Specialty Crops Program compiles its National Potato and Onion Report. This session features a distinguished panel:
- Heather M. Pichelman – Associate Deputy Administrator, AMS Specialty Crops Program, brings her expertise in overseeing market condition evaluations and promotion programs.
- Heather Farber-Lau – Acting Deputy Director, AMS Specialty Crops Market News Division, offers insights with her Six Sigma Black Belt background and her work on modernizing AMS’s data platforms.
- Mick Davie – Officer in Charge, Idaho Falls Office, AMS Specialty Crops Market News Division, will share his extensive knowledge from over 33 years with the USDA.
Attendees will learn firsthand about the data collection, methodology, and analysis behind this essential market report, a key resource for onion producers and industry stakeholders.
Protect Your Business with PACA
In an essential session on safeguarding produce businesses, Travis Hubbs, Deputy Director of the PACA Division, AMS Fair Trade Practices Program, will discuss the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA). Travis, a certified fraud examiner with extensive experience in conducting investigations and negotiating agreements, will provide guidance on how PACA works to ensure that growers and shippers are compensated fairly. This session is invaluable for anyone in the onion supply chain looking to protect their business interests.
Convention Highlights
Alongside a dynamic speaker lineup, the NOA Annual Convention offers unique experiences and networking opportunities, including:
- Vidalia Onion Tours
- Savannah Taste Experience
- Annual Raffle and Awards Ceremony
- Golf Outing
- Research and Information Sessions
This convention is designed to offer a mix of education, celebration, and relaxation. It’s the perfect opportunity to learn from the best in the industry while enjoying the charm and hospitality of Savannah.
Register Now
With a full itinerary of top-tier speakers, interactive tours, and exciting events, this year’s NOA Annual Convention is not to be missed. Registration is $975 for members and $575 for spouses or friends, offering outstanding value for all that’s included.
Secure your spot today:
