The Almond Board of California is again preparing to honor leaders who have made lasting contributions to the state’s almond industry.
Each year, two distinguished awards—the Almond Achievement Award and the Almond Technical Achievement Award—are presented at The Almond Conference. Nominations for the 2025 awards are now open, with a deadline of Oct. 10, 2025. Winners will be announced during the luncheon on Thursday, Dec. 11.
Almond Achievement Award
Established in 2011, the Almond Achievement Award recognizes an individual whose long-term service has added exceptional value to the California almond industry. Recipients are industry members with deep, direct involvement and a demonstrated commitment to advancing the industry. Their impact is measured not just in years of service, but in the enduring benefits they leave for growers, handlers, and allied stakeholders alike.
In 2024, Dan Cummings was honored with the Almond Achievement Award for his years of dedication and leadership that continue to influence the future of almonds in California.
Almond Technical Achievement Award
The Almond Technical Achievement Award was launched in 2021 and spotlights innovation, research, and progress in the adoption of improved practices. This honor is given to an industry or allied industry member who has contributed a significant advancement—whether through research, pioneering practices, or helping the industry adopt new techniques for the overall improvement of the industry and its farms.
At the 2024 conference, Dr. Brent Holtz received the award in recognition of his technical leadership and efforts to drive innovation in almond production. Holtz has had many contributions to the industry and is best known for his involvement and pioneering of whole orchard recycling.
Nominate a leader
These awards highlight the vision and hard work that sustain the California almond industry. If you know an individual who embodies these qualities, submit your nomination before October 10, 2025.
Nominate for the Almond Achievement Award here
Nominate for the Almond Technical Achievement Award here
Winners will be celebrated at The Almond Conference this December, continuing the tradition of honoring those who shape the future of almonds.
You can visit Past Winners here.
Main image: Brent Holtz at the 2024 Almond Conference after receiving the Almond Technical Achievement Award. Photo: Almond Board of California
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