For the thirteenth year, the American Pistachio Growers (APG) LeadOn Program continues to shape the next generation of leadership within the U.S. pistachio industry. Built for individuals with a long-term commitment to the crop and the organizations that support it, LeadOn offers a year-long immersion into the economic, operational, and policy forces influencing the industry’s future.

At a recent LeadOn Program meeting, participants from the 2025–2026 class delivered their final capstone presentations—bringing together a year of learning across pistachio production and processing, marketing, food safety, government affairs, and advocacy. These presentations served not only as a culmination of the program, but also as a reflection of the challenges and opportunities currently shaping the industry. 

Viewing Global Markets Through a Strategic Lens

One capstone presentation examined international market development, asking a fundamental question: where can APG’s marketing efforts drive the most durable, long-term growth? Rather than attempting to analyze every variable, the group applied a disciplined, high-level framework—evaluating global markets based on consumer spending power and existing pistachio demand.

The analysis highlighted developed international markets, including Japan, the United Kingdom, and France, each shaped by distinct demographic and economic dynamics. Across these regions, common themes emerged—aging populations, increasing interest in health-forward foods, and a growing preference for premium products. At the same time, the presentation acknowledged that market access, regulatory requirements, and quality standards remain decisive factors in translating opportunity into sustained growth.

Taken together, the findings reinforced a broader message: long-term market development depends not only on demand, but on consistency, reputation, and the ability to navigate increasingly complex trade environments.

Energy as a Defining Operational Challenge

Another capstone presentation shifted focus closer to home, examining government affairs through the lens of energy costs and infrastructure reliability. Using historical data, the presenters illustrated how energy—once a relatively stable operating input—has become a growing and unpredictable challenge for agricultural operations.

The presentation highlighted delays in infrastructure development, recurring outages, and rising utility rates as compounding factors that now influence long-term planning decisions. Energy, the group concluded, is no longer a short-term budgeting concern but a structural issue requiring diversified solutions, strategic investment, and engagement with available funding and policy mechanisms.

Preparing Leaders for What Comes Next

While the subject matter of the capstone presentations varied, a common thread ran through each: the need for informed leadership capable of navigating a more complex operating environment. Through exposure to industry issues, governance structures, and strategic decision-making, the LeadOn Program is designed to prepare participants not just to understand these challenges, but to help guide the industry through them.

As the 2025–2026 class prepares to graduate, their work reflects the program’s core purpose—building a leadership pipeline equipped to support the long-term stability and growth of the U.S. pistachio industry.

How do I join LeadOn?

Applications for the 2026–2027 APG LeadOn Program are now open and will be accepted through February 27. Individuals interested in contributing to the future leadership of the U.S. pistachio industry can learn more and apply at: https://apgpower.americanpistachios.org/leadon-program/#apply