The Farmworker of the Year Award annually recognizes a Napa County vineyard worker whose excellence, leadership, and commitment to learning make a lasting impact on Napa Valley’s vineyard workforce.
Honoring individuals who lead by example, share their knowledge, inspire others, and create opportunities that strengthen the vineyard workforce and broader community.
Napa Valley
Farmworker of the Year
2026 Farmworker of the Year | Juan González
¡Felicidades, Juan González!
Early in his career, Juan González dreamed of seeing his family’s name on the side of a company truck. In 2016, that dream became reality when his brother Arturo and nephew Jorge founded Gonzalez Vineyard Management.
Today, Juan works alongside them as a supervisor, leading crews of up to 200 vineyard workers during harvest. His journey reflects more than three decades of dedication, a commitment to family, and a belief in the opportunities available to those who work in Napa Valley’s vineyards.
Excellence in the Vineyard
Juan began his career tying vines at Walsh Vineyards. Through decades of experience with Walsh, Renteria, and Hess, he developed expertise across every stage of the growing season.
His attention to detail is evident in everything he does, including a 52- to 62-step harvest checklist that helps ensure every crew, row, and bin is ready.
“The vineyards were my school, and my degree is the years I’ve been working.”
Exceptional Leadership
Juan remembers what it feels like to be the newest person on a crew. Today, he leads by listening, welcoming questions, and encouraging others to reach their potential.
“Be honest, be serious and, above all, listen.”
He believes vineyard workers have opportunities to advance, become leaders, and even own businesses.
Dedication to Learning
Even after 30 years in the vineyards, Juan continues to invest in his education. Each year, he participates in Napa Valley Farmworker Foundation English classes, as well as courses in math, leadership, and vineyard safety.
By combining hands-on experience with continued learning, Juan strengthens his own skills while sharing knowledge, building confidence, and creating opportunities for the people he leads.
Recognizing the People Behind Napa Valley
Juan’s story reflects the skill, dedication, and contributions of Napa Valley’s vineyard workforce. His commitment to excellence, leadership, and learning strengthens not only the vineyards where he works, but also the people and community around him.
“All of us who work in the fields are the gardeners of Napa Valley.”
Congratulations to Juan González, our 2026 Napa Valley Farmworker of the Year!
“Juan Gonzalez represents the very best of our agricultural community. His dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to his team reflect the values we strive for at Gonzalez Vineyard Management. Behind every successful year are hardworking individuals whose contributions deserve to be seen and celebrated. This award is a powerful reminder of the people who are the heartbeat of Napa Valley’s wine industry. We are incredibly proud of Juan and honored to have him as part of our team. We couldn’t think of anyone more deserving of this recognition!”
2025 Farmworker of the Year | Roberto Juárez
In 2025, the Napa Valley Farmworker Foundation introduced the inaugural Farmworker of the Year Award —an annual honor celebrating an individual whose dedication, leadership, and excellence make a meaningful impact on Napa Valley’s vineyard workforce. Across the valley, there are farmworkers who lead with skill, heart, and purpose, and this award recognizes those who elevate the profession through their example.
Roberto’s journey from El Zanguarro, Guanajuato, to being named 2025 Farmworker of the Year reflects years of determination, hard work, and a deep commitment to learning. After starting in landscaping, he found his passion in viticulture and steadily rose to become a respected vineyard manager, driven by curiosity and a strong work ethic.
Learning English through classes offered by the Farmworker Foundation opened new doors, helping him collaborate closely with winemakers and lead with confidence. With 17 years of experience, Roberto now mentors crews, shares best practices, volunteers in the community, and serves on the Napa Valley Farmworker Foundation’s Education Committee. His story is a powerful reminder that with opportunity and perseverance, farmworkers can build strong careers, support their families, and inspire the next generation.
The Farmworker of the Year is an annual recognition that honors an individual whose dedication, leadership, and excellence have made a lasting impact on Napa Valley’s vineyard workforce.
Across every vineyard, there are individuals who lead with skill, heart, and purpose. Now is the time to recognize them.
This prestigious award celebrates a Napa County farmworker who exemplifies:
Excellence in the Vineyard – A deep understanding of viticultural best practices and a consistent commitment to quality work.
Exceptional Leadership – Demonstrated leadership in the workplace, whether through a formal supervisory role or peer influence.
Dedication to Learning – A passion for personal growth through education and a desire to help others learn and thrive.
Napa Valley
Farmworker of the Year
Do you know someone who deserves this recognition? We invite vineyard managers, supervisors, employers, coworkers, and community members to nominate an outstanding farmworker at a supervisor/management level whose leadership and dedication inspire those around them.
🗓️ Nominations are open June 1–30.
Nomination Criteria
This award recognizes not only career achievement but also the spirit of service, mentorship, and excellence that strengthen Napa’s wine industry.
Nomination Period: June 16 – July 11
Eligibility:
Any farmworker currently working in Napa County is eligible for nomination.
Selection Process:
Nominations will be reviewed by a dedicated Award Committee comprised of FWF Board members, Education Committee members, and respected community representatives.
The Farmworker of the Year will be announced in October, during Hispanic Heritage Month.
Key Dates
Nomination Period: June
Award Selection: July
Public Announcement: October
Awards & Recognition Celebration: November 13
Award Winner Recognition:
The Farmworker of the Year will be formally recognized at a special awards dinner on November 14th, held in conjunction with CULTIVAR.
The recipient will be invited to attend with their family and will receive a commemorative gift and a cash prize in recognition of their exceptional contributions.
In addition, the honoree’s story will be spotlighted and shared across the Napa Valley wine industry, offering opportunities for professional networking, increased visibility, and personal development.
All Nominees Will Receive:
A personalized letter & certificate honoring their outstanding nomination.
Recognition at CULTIVAR
Recognition on the FWF Website.
