Natalie Tegerdal was born and raised in Salinas, California, and with a mom who spent over 25 years in produce sales, she learned early how far relationships, loyalty, and quick problem-solving can take you. Instilled with that same work ethic at a young age, she managed to graduate from Salinas High while juggling full-time work by taking extra classes at Hartnell College.

Determined to break into produce sales, she took on any job that would get her closer to the action—from grower accounting to intermodal dispatch—and spent plenty of time lingering in sales offices until she finally got her shot. In 2015, she officially jumped into the produce sales world with a national brokerage company. Armed with a Blue Book, a pencil, and a whole lot of grit, she built her career from the ground up.

Over the years, Natalie has developed strong relationships across the industry, from growers to retailers, and became known for her work in organic programs and custom grow strategies. Her straightforward, loyal, and think-outside-the-box approach eventually led her to partner with a large custom grower—and that became the foundation of 1912 Produce.

Today, Natalie brings her honesty, energy, and unapologetic work ethic to the company. Those who know her well can verify her outspoken personality is matched only by her big heart. Whether she’s supporting major shippers or local farm stands, she brings the same passion to every project. No program is too big or too small—if it’s produce, she’s all in.