Patrick Foley FIELDS OF OPPORTUNITY℠: Summer Mentor Program
The Patrick Foley FIELDS OF OPPORTUNITY: Summer Mentor Program is an intensive eight-week hands-on experience that pairs participants with mentors from across Napa Valley’s wine industry.
Through real work, guided conversations, professional insights, and shared learning, the program strengthens leadership skills, builds confidence, and encourages participants to explore long-term career goals.
Each summer, the Foundation offers its signature Patrick Foley FIELDS OF OPPORTUNITY: Summer Mentor Program, which honors the legacy of the late winemaker, Patrick Foley.
Patrick Foley FIELDS OF OPPORTUNITY: Summer Mentor Program
This program was named in honor of the legacy of Winemaker In Memoriam - William Patrick Foley III - 1986-2018
William Patrick Foley III passed away on August 12, 2018. He is remembered for his generosity, warmth, infectious personality, and unwavering passion for winemaking.
After moving with his family to Jacksonville, Florida, Patrick attended The Bolles School, where he excelled both academically and athletically, competing on a state championship football team and playing lacrosse. He later attended Chapman University, where he continued his lacrosse career while earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in 2010.
Patrick began his professional career in investment banking with Bank of America Merrill Lynch before following his passion for wine. After completing a harvest at Chalk Hill Winery, he pursued advanced studies at Lincoln University in Canterbury, New Zealand, earning a Master’s Certificate in Enology and Viticulture. He continued to build his experience through harvest work in Argentina before joining Roth Winery in Healdsburg as an Enologist, later advancing to Assistant Winemaker.
In 2016, Patrick joined Foley Johnson Winery in Rutherford as Winemaker, where he dedicated himself to crafting exceptional Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon and furthering the legacy of Napa Valley winemaking.
Patrick’s enthusiasm, determination, and love for the wine industry left a lasting impact on those who knew and worked alongside him.
The Foundation is honored to offer impactful programming bearing his name, and is forever grateful to his family for supporting the Patrick Foley FIELDS OF OPPORTUNITY: Summer Mentor Program.
Patrick Foley FIELDS OF OPPORTUNITY ℠:
Summer Mentor Program
The Patrick Foley FIELDS OF OPPORTUNITY Summer Mentor Program opens the door to an unforgettable summer. Imagine hands-on work experience, learning alongside Napa Valley grape growers, and skill-building workshops designed to set up a bright future.
Each role is paid, with students receiving a stipend for participating in all workshops.
Work experience roles may include:
Viticulture Technology: Counting, tracking, and measuring
Irrigation Department: Inventory, maintenance, and repairs
Mechanics Department: Maintenance, repairs, and welding
Tasting Room/Hospitality: Greeting guests, setting and bussing tables
Office: Filing, event support, and data entry
Vineyards: Canopy management and weed control
Cellar and Winery Production: Barrel cleaning, hose maintenance, and data tracking
Beyond a paycheck, this is an opportunity to shape the future, gain insights from leaders in a world-class industry, and develop skills that will be invaluable in any career.
This program offers a journey like no other—one where each day brings new skills, friendships, and steps toward an extraordinary future, and honors the late winemaker Patrick Foley.
Why Students Should Apply
Whether driven by a clear goal to enter the wine industry or simply a curiosity to learn more, this program offers a unique opportunity. Participants gain invaluable insights from industry leaders dedicated to Napa Valley's future and committed to fostering the next generation. Alongside a cohort of like-minded peers, students develop a vision of the leader and professional they aspire to become.
This paid mentorship goes beyond a summer job—it’s an investment in personal growth, an opportunity to expand horizons, and an invitation to dream big. With support at every step, it promises a rewarding and transformative experience.
Criteria For Students to Apply
Priority is given to students from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds
Currently enrolled in high school at the time of application
Age 16 or older
Able to commit to the full 8-week program
Interest in exploring a career in the wine industry
Positive attitude and eagerness to learn new skills
Flexibility to take on a variety of tasks in the vineyard and winery as required by the position
2026 Key Dates for Students
Application Period: March 1 - March 31
Student Interviews: April 1- April 12
Selection Date: April 30
Program Duration: June 16 - August 8
The Mentors
Most have had someone who offered guidance, shared wisdom, or helped open doors along their career path. Fields of Opportunity is a chance to do just that for a local high school student beginning to explore their future.
Some students in this program are already interested in the wine industry, while others are eager to learn more about it. This program offers an invaluable way to share knowledge and passion, inviting local students into the fold.
Atlas Vineyard Management
Clark Vineyard Management
Constellation Brands
Corison Winery
Far Niente Wine Estates
Foley Johnson Winery
Grgich
Hagafen Cellars
Hudson Ranch
Huneeus Vintners
Jericho Canyon Vineyards
Larkmead Vineyards
LOLA Wines
Napa Wine Company
Opus One Winery
Palisades Vineyard
Pimentel Vineyard Management
Pine Ridge Vineyards
Renteria Vineyard Management
Rios Farming Co.
Silverado Farming Company
The Napa Valley Reserve
Tom Eddy Winery
Tres Sabores
V. Sattui Winery
Walsh Vineyards Management
Yount Mill Vineyards
To become a mentor, please complete the form below or fill out this Google form.
