Vonnie Estes

Vonnie’s role as VP of Innovation at International Fresh Produce Association is to bring technology to the produce industry across the supply chain, bridging the gap between technology innovators and producers to identify and solve pressing needs. Her career has been driven by a passion for agriculture, technology, and sustainability. She has held leadership roles with some of the largest multinational organizations along with start-ups.

Vonnie is a sought-after voice in the ag industry, speaking and publishing frequently. She produces an insightful weekly Podcast “Fresh Takes on Tech” on technology and solutions in the Produce Industry and manages the Fresh Field Catalyst Accelerator bringing new technologies into the industry.  She also chairs the Technology and CEA Councils for IFPA pulling the industry together on important topics to those sectors. She sits on three start-up company board of directors (Creatus Bio, Kula Bio and Stony Creek Colors) in addition to advisory and government boards.

Vonnie earned a bachelor of science degree in horticulture from New Mexico State University and a master of science degree in plant pathology from University of California, Davis. The Biotechnology Innovation Organization awarded her with the fourth annual Rosalind Franklin Award for Leadership in Industrial Biotechnology in 2017, an award recognizing women who make lasting contributions in the field of biotechnology.