About Us
The Food Production Solutions Association (FPSA) is a dynamic community of food producers, manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers. As the only association bringing together the entire food industry across all segments and all those involved in the food production process, we work to create a collaborative environment that brings together industry leaders, experts and innovators. Through meaningful education, industry engagement, and philanthropy, FPSA and our members are shaping the future of food production.
Create Connections
FPSA is a dynamic community of food production industry leaders and experts, where collaboration and new ideas shape the future of food production.
FPSA connects members with potential partners, suppliers, and collaborators who share a commitment to innovation.
Stay Informed
FPSA provides a range of resources that offer timely and specific insights that can help members anticipate changes in the industry, take advantage of opportunities as they arise, and plan strategic initiatives to grow their business in new sectors.
Give Back
FPSA gives back to the community we serve to ensure a prosperous future. Through our philanthropic initiatives, we aim to create positive change and support the industry we serve. Whether it's through donations, volunteering, or education, we believe that everyone has the power to make a difference.
Who Our Members Are
Join FPSA and become part of a vibrant community comprising leading food producers, top-tier equipment manufacturers, comprehensive packaging services and supplies providers, automation and technology experts, and accomplished engineering professionals. Together, we collaborate, stay abreast of industry trends, drive business growth, and contribute to philanthropic initiatives, shaping the future of food production. Join us in revolutionizing the industry!
Our diverse membership includes four distinct categories that reflect the full spectrum of our industry:
- Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs)
- Food Producers
- Associates
- Consultants
What Drives Us
At FPSA, we're passionate about advancing the food production industry through creating connections, keeping members informed on the latest trends affecting our industry, and giving back to the community we serve. Our programs, services, and resources are designed to support our members' growth by enhancing company visibility, building professional networks, expanding marketing opportunities, providing market intelligence and research, offering educational advancement, and cultivating the next generation of industry leaders.
We understand that the challenges facing our industry require collective solutions. That's why we've built a comprehensive ecosystem of support that addresses everything from technical training and professional development to market research and business networking.
Our Impact
FPSA's commitment to giving back extends far beyond our membership. In 2024 alone, we donated $318,990 in philanthropy and $277,235 in educational support, touching countless lives through our various initiatives. Our DEFEAT HUNGER© Campaign, directly combats food insecurity in our events host cities.
Through our scholarship programs, we've invested in the future of our industry by supporting both emerging professionals and continuing education for current industry members. Through the FPSA Foundation, the Career Development Scholarship Program and the Tom Imbordino Dairy Scholarship, we support the educational dreams of emerging leaders in the food industry.
FPSA Philanthropic Efforts:
Educational Support
FPSA Staff:
Chris Lyons
CEO
Chris is an executive leader who brings experience in strategy, operational improvement, organizational design, change management, and capacity building with non-profit, commercial, and government organizations to his job as CEO and President of the Food Production Solutions Association. He’s previously held leadership roles in both c(6) and c(3) associations.
Chris and his wife live in Northern Virginia. When he’s not advocating for members and inspiring the FPSA staff, Chris enjoys boating, hunting, and trips to the beach.
Allison Wachter
VP, Operations
Allison brings over 20 years of leadership experience in association management and event strategy to her role as Vice President of Operations. Allison combines her strategic vision with hands-on expertise in communications, marketing, and member engagement. Her track record includes launching groundbreaking events, implementing cost-saving initiatives and technologies, while fostering organizational growth during pivotal transitions.
Allison enjoys interior design projects, catching the latest Netflix release, and hiking the Virginia trails with her spirited mini-goldendoodles, Lilly & Poppy.
Illeny Maaza
Director, Membership
With over 20 years in association management, Illeny has built a career connecting people, streamlining systems, and developing programs that deliver results. She blends strong team leadership and collaborative problem-solving with a creative background in design and photography.
A DC native now living in Northern Virginia—and a former NYC and Seattle resident—Illeny recharges by spending time in nature, hiking, practicing Pilates, tending her plants, working with clay, and pursuing her passion for photography. She’s happiest with her furry companions nearby and an audiobook queued up.
Jennifer Jedrilinic
Director, Education & Volunteer Relations
Jen brings energy, creativity, and a passion for education strategy and volunteer engagement to her role as Director of Education & Volunteer Relations. She collaborates across teams to spark new ideas, elevate member experiences, and move initiatives forward.
Based in Potomac, MD with her family—including her husband, who runs a tech firm supporting the IC—Jen is happiest cheering on her two daughters, hiking local trails, planning her next getaway, and cruising with the top down in her convertible.
Janessa Kamps
Senior Manager, Marketing & Communications
Janessa brings boundless creativity to her role as Senior Manager of Marketing, Design & Communications. With a background spanning sales leadership at Values Magazines, promotional marketing with MKTG Inc., and executive support at the National Grocers Association, she expertly blends brand storytelling with member engagement to elevate FPSA's presence and impact.
Originally from a big family in Idaho, Janessa now calls Arlington, VA home, where she's often found exploring the city with her beloved dog, Archer, brainstorming her next creative project, or enjoying the vibrant energy of the DMV area.
AJ Wunder
Membership Coordinator
AJ brings enthusiasm, adaptability, and a can-do attitude to his role as Membership Coordinator. He drives membership and sponsorship, supports key initiatives like the FSX, and keeps systems running smoothly and member accounts up to date behind the scenes.
He lives in Alexandria, VA with his girlfriend Allie and their dog Baxter. In his free time, AJ keeps active by going to the gym, heading to Washington Nationals games, or taking Baxter to the dog park.
FPSA Members
