An In-depth Chat with Ian Hudson, PCA/Manager

This month, we had the opportunity to interview Ian Hudson based in Hollister, CA, for an in-depth chat about his role as a Pest Control Advisor (PCA) / Manager with TriCal Inc.:

What is your role in the company?

I work as a salesman covering Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Clara Counties. Additionally, I help manage the Hollister location, which typically has between 85 to 125 employees, depending on the season.

How long have you worked with TriCal Inc.?

13 years

Tell us about your professional development journey.

After graduating from high school, I attended CSU Fresno, where I pursued studies in Enology and Viticulture. Throughout my time there, I developed a deep passion for winemaking, particularly in marketing and sales. In 2007, I transferred to Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, to complete my undergraduate studies. Along the way, I married my high school sweetheart and secured a winemaking position in Templeton, CA. When my spouse and I decided to start a family, we returned to our hometown of Hollister. Just prior to our transition back home, interviewed for a Sales position at TriCal. Given the natural synergy between production and sales in the wine industry, transitioning into my role as a salesman at TriCal felt like a seamless move. Although it did take a few days before I could pronounce Chloropicrin correctly.

What is a typical day like for you?

Rarely do I experience a typical day in Hollister, and that’s something I truly appreciate about this job. Managing a sizable workforce presents a constant stream of challenges to overcome. From resolving payroll issues to plastic recycling hurdles, each day presents its unique set of obstacles. I consider myself fortunate to have the opportunity to regularly collaborate with our R&D team and interact with scientific celebrities like Steve Koike.

What is the best part about your job?

The best part of my job is working with exceptional individuals. Whether it’s our dedicated tractor drivers or our management team, we benefit immensely from their wealth of knowledge and expertise. It’s rare to find such a devoted workforce in any company. We even have third-generation tractor drivers in our yard, which speaks volumes about the loyalty and dedication within our company.

What is one thing you wish everyone knew about your job?

We take safety very seriously. Soil fumigation is vital to growers’ success. There is an extra burden of stress that we in sales carry after a job near sensitive areas. We are detail-oriented because we want to preserve this tool that helps to keep crops healthy and our food supply abundant.

What is one thing you are looking forward to this year (work or/and personal)?

Due to additional regulatory hurdles, we’ve had to implement new procedures for job preparation this year. Previously, each salesman had their own method for managing paperwork submission, job mapping, billing, and other tasks. Now, we’ve introduced a streamlined system that we’ve developed, with the goal of simplifying paperwork processing for everyone involved. While there is understandable uneasiness with change, I am optimistic that this new system will ultimately make our jobs easier.

What do you like to do outside of work?

While I do enjoy playing golf, my greatest joy comes from spending time with my family. Whether I’m coaching my kids’ baseball teams or we’re traveling on vacation, every moment with them is cherished. Throughout the years, one thing has resonated with me: life is short. Don’t wait to take those trips or spend time with family. We’ve all experienced loss, and it’s a reminder to prioritize the moments that truly matter.

Thank you, Ian, for chatting with us. We value your loyalty, dedication, and wit.

If you’re a grower in Ian’s area and you are interested in collaborating with him, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact us by calling (669) 327-5076 or emailing us at info@trical.com. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you.

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