Skip to main content

Almond Leadership Program: Mentor Spotlight – Q&A with Gabby Chavarria

1/28/2025

Almonds

Gabby Chavarria, Director of New Product Development at Harris Woolf Almonds and two-year ALP Mentor

Q. How are you involved in the almond industry? 
A. I have been a food safety and quality manager for Harris Woolf for 5 years and 3.5 years at ADM. Now, as a Director of New Product development, I focus more on research, product innovation, and development using almonds, almond protein powder, and almond oil

Q. How did you get involved with the Almond Leadership Program and how many years have you been involved as a mentor?
A. I participated in the 2019 Almond Leadership program, and this is my first year as a mentor.

Q. What is your favorite part of being a mentor in Almond Leadership?
A. It was such a pleasure getting to know Victoria. It was great to hear about her experience in the industry and give feedback on her project. She is just a wonderful human being.

Q. What is your favorite memory during your time as a mentor?
A. The joy of talking to Victoria. Our personalities clicked well; we had more in common than we thought. It was fun, every conversation.  

Q. What advice do you have for (young) almond leaders?
A. Enjoy what you do and learn a lot; don’t hesitate to contact your peers and connect with the almond board. The team is always ready to answer any questions or concerns.  

Q. How do you like to eat almonds?
A. I enjoy almond butter and caramel drizzled on a green apple.