Jon Baloian
Jon Baloian is the chairman for Vegetables
Jon Baloian is originally from Southern California, but moved to Fresno when he was a child and graduated from Central High School. After graduation he moved to back to Southern California to attend college at Azusa Pacific with the aspiration of attaining his degree and credential in social studies.
He spent a few summers during high school and college working at Baloian Packing Company, but decided it wasn’t for him. He never thought he would end up working back at the family-owned packing company.
While he was on track to receive his credential, Baloian worked with children at the First Armenian Presbyterian Church in Fresno. Three years into it he decided to step away from his original career goals.
“I thought I wanted to teach, but I didn’t like it when I got into the credential program,” Baloian said. “It’s not what I expected it to be. I just didn’t want to do it anymore.”
Fast forward to present day and Baloian’s tone about working at the family business has definitely changed. He is about to enter his fourth year with the company.
Family life and company history
The Baloian family has been involved in the produce industry since 1923 when Charles Baloian started the company’s first enterprise, a full-service produce business called Charles Baloian Company, Inc. Eventually his sons, James and Edward, joined him as partners.
In 1965, the partners formed Pam Pak Distributors, Inc., which is currently Baloian Packing’s top label, to package and market fresh vegetables from a large number of local growers who supplied Charles Baloian Company, Inc. In 1968, Pam Pak Distributors, Inc. began its own farming operations in an effort to increase their annual business and to supply the rising demands for their product.
Baloian Packing Company emerged in 1985 in an effort by Edward Baloian and son Timothy to continue the operations of Pam Pak Distributors, Inc.
Jon’s window of opportunity to join the company happened three years ago, thanks in large part to a little coaxing from his older brother, Jacob, who urged him to talk to his uncle Tim.
“I’m enjoying it,” said Baloian. “I’m outside, active and love the people I work with. It’s part of family life.”
Learn as you ‘grow’
Baloian believes his educational background and experience with working with children has enabled him to interact well with other employees and individuals in the industry.
Jon primarily works with green and red bell peppers. However, the company also packs more than 20 other vegetables.
Earlier this year, Baloian spent four months serving as the company’s liaison in Coachella Valley during their lettuce harvest season.
“I got to know our partners and learn a lot about lettuce,” Baloian said.
Jon enjoys the entire learning process. Whether he’s in the fields or completing reports, he likes being the eyes and ears for the company.
Unifying agriculture
Baloian is currently the Fresno County Farm Bureau Commodity Chairman for vegetables.
Jon joined FCFB after Sales Manager Jeremy Lane recommended he join the organization.
“I like FCFB because the organization is good at unifying agriculture,” said Baloian. “It encompasses everything.”
The organization plays a vital role in representing the farming and ranching community, Baloian said. The education he has received in politics and other facets of agriculture has proven to be beneficial.
“I’ve been really impressed, ” he added about the organization.
Away from work
When Baloian is not working at Baloian Packing Company, he spends most of his time reading fictional books or playing basketball.
“I like to relax, play basketball, or be with friends, ” Baloian said.
Meet Your Board Members Profile: Ag Today, Jun 10
By: George Villagrana