Company News, Employee Spotlight

Employee Spotlight: Chad LaFazia

ABOUT

Chad LaFazia has been a part of our South Mill family for the past 18 years! Born in Delaware, he always enjoyed being outdoors and playing in woods and streams. He majored in Agricultural Business at the University of Delaware and graduated in 1999. After working awhile selling seeds, chemicals, and fertilizers, he heard about an opening for a trainee in our growing department. His friend was a grower for us in Kennett and suggested that he pursue mushroom growing. Chad came to work for us in 2002, and after training in growing, he became assistant manager in our Phase 2 compost division. He then worked as a grower in our M&J farm, and later as manager of the Phase 1 division. In 2011, he assumed the role of Director of Growing. Chad is drawn to the ongoing challenges he faces with compost, growing, and harvesting; where everyday is different and there is always something new to learn. He likes diagnosing problems and resolving them with his team. Chad enjoys spending time with his wife, Melanie, and his 3 children, ages 11, 7, 3. He loves sports and enjoys supporting his daughter Mia at her softball games. He also dabbles in brewing beer when he has the time. Thank you for your many years of dedication to South Mill, Chad.