Farm employees honored for dedicated service

Frank Hernandez, a dedicated leader at Vermeulen Almond Hulling in Modesto, was named the winner of the Farm Worker of the Year, an award program—now in its fifth year—started by the Stanislaus County Farm Bureau, AgSafe and the Modesto Rotary Club to recognize essential workers vital to producing, harvesting and packing food.

From running the huller to maintaining equipment, installing irrigation and fabricating machinery, Hernandez has done it all. With more than 40 years of experience, he is the heart of the operation, a mentor and a trusted confidant. His commitment, knowledge and loyalty make him a true standout.

“He’s kind of the soul behind all of us,” said Paul Vermeulen, owner of Vermeulen Almond Hulling. “He makes sure everyone has what they need to get going. And talk about knowledge—there’s not a job in almond farming that he hasn’t done.”

Hernandez, who was nominated for the award by Vermeulen, wears many hats at the business including running the huller and overseeing the hulling crew during harvest. He maintains equipment, installs irrigation, removes and plants orchards and fabricates and welds platforms for new shelling equipment. In addition, he is learning about new technology at the company.

Hernandez started working for Vermeulen’s grandfather, Paul Dunlop, in 1980, while still in high school. One of his jobs was helping level almonds in the pickup machines and buggies since they didn’t have augers. At the time he had a lawn-mowing business and would tend to his customers as he drove to or from the farm. Once he graduated, he started working full-time at the almond operation.

While Hernandez has always had an interest in mechanics from working on vehicles, he learned the agricultural side from Paul Dunlop.

“He was really mechanical, really electrical,” Hernandez said. “I picked up a lot from him. He’s an awesome guy, really respectful. I learned a lot from him working side by side.”

Hernandez’ love of auto mechanics continues as he works to keep his pride and joy, a 1966 Ford F-100 pickup, running. 

Vermeulen took over the family businesses 13 years ago, and the roles shifted — Hernandez became a mentor. He also has been an integral part of the growth of the businesses. He said he has stayed with the family farming operation due to the variety of jobs and because he is treated well. 

“It’s the respect they give you,” Hernandez said. “They treated me good.”

When Hernandez was told he was selected for the overall top honor, he said he had never been nominated for anything in his life, let alone won.

“For him (Vermeulen) to nominate me, I feel great, and I want to thank him,” Hernandez said.

Hernandez has been married to his wife, Sylvia, for nearly 43 years, and they live in Ceres. They have five adult children.

Gold winners of the Farm Workers of the Year Award include:

-Antonio Arias, supervisor and assistant herdsman for Durrer Dairy LP, in Modesto.

-Alfred Gomez, who handles farm ground operations at Westley-based Cox & Perez Farms,  

-Miguel Lopez, who leads a team of irrigation employees at Modesto-based Ratto Bros. Inc.

-Jesus Pantoja, who works for Oakdale nut crop and forage farmer Rod Gambini.

Silver winners of the Farm Workers of the Year Award include:

-Maximillano “Max” Camberos, equipment operator for Five Rings Harvesting, a custom-harvesting company near Westley.

-Jorge Mercado, equipment maintenance operator and trainer at Bays Ranch in Westley.

-Hector Ruiz, irrigation supervisor at Cox & Perez Farms in Westley. 

The following received honorable mention honors:

-Juan Acosta, harvesting supervisor at Five Rings Harvesting near Westley.

-Jesse Camarena, field division supervisor and manager of labor and tree production at Hickman-based Dave Wilson Nursery.

-Tristan Vos, farm manager and pest control adviser at Stanislaus County-based Winters Farming.

The honorees were celebrated April 1, at the Modesto Rotary Luncheon. The event was held in partnership with Modesto Rotary, Stanislaus County Farm Bureau, Central Valley Opportunity Center Inc. and AgSafe.