At TriCal, Inc., the strength of our work in the agriculture industry comes down to the people behind the scenes — those who show up early, stay late, and keep our operations running smoothly for the growers who count on us. One of those people is Robert DeLuna.

This month, we’re proud to recognize Robert, a longtime team member whose 47 years in the industry and unwavering commitment to both agriculture and the veteran community speak volumes about the kind of person he is — and the values we hold at TriCal.

Robert joined TriCal over 21 years ago as a driver, bringing with him a wealth of hands-on experience, a strong work ethic, and an eye for precision. Today, he plays a key supervisory role at our Hollister yard, where he helps lead operations, maintain equipment, and weld and fabricate the custom rigs our teams and growers rely on throughout the season.

His work might not always be visible to customers, but it’s vital. When TriCal crews head out to fumigate soil, especially during tight planting windows, they’re using equipment that Robert has had a hand in building or maintaining. In an industry where timing and reliability are everything, Robert is the kind of person you want in your corner.

Farmers know that some of the most important work happens before the sun comes up. Robert does too.

During peak season, he’s often on the job by 3 a.m., making sure crews are set up for success. Over the years, he’s learned to sharpen not just his technical expertise but also his communication and leadership skills — all while staying energized by the daily rhythm of a job that connects him to something bigger.

“It’s hard to say what the best part of the job is,” Robert says. “There’s so much more to it. Working with like-minded people — to be honest, I like everything about it.”

Robert’s dedication doesn’t end with the workday. A proud U.S. Army veteran, he’s spent over 14 years serving the veteran community through the American Legion and American Legion Riders. Currently, he leads as Post Commander of American Legion Post 69 in Hollister and previously served as Riders’ President.

In 2022, Robert was honored as Veteran of the Year — a recognition that reflects not just his military service, but his ongoing leadership and commitment to fellow veterans.

One of Robert’s most meaningful contributions outside TriCal is his involvement in Run for the Wall — a cross-country motorcycle ride that honors veterans, promotes healing, and raises awareness for those who are still missing in action. It’s more than a ride — it’s a powerful tribute to service and sacrifice.

Robert recently completed another ride with the group, traveling thousands of miles to stand in honor of those who served and those who remain unaccounted for. His journey is a reminder of what it means to live with purpose, both on and off the road.

Learn more about this important mission: https://rftw.us/about-run-for-the-wall/

At TriCal, we’re proud to have people like Robert DeLuna on our team — people who understand the value of hard work, quiet leadership, and supporting a greater mission. His example reminds us that in agriculture, as in life, it’s the steady, committed hands that keep things growing.

Thank you, Robert, for your service — to TriCal, to the ag community, and to your country.

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