CONTACT
Helle Petersen, F3 Local Regional Director
Helle Petersen is an innovative leader with over a decade of experience in the dynamic landscape of innovation and regional economic development, primarily in California's Central Valley. As the Director of the Water, Energy, and Technology Center, she collaborates with cutting-edge startups to bring inventive solutions to market, particularly in the regional agricultural sector. Her career began in soil remediation with a startup, providing invaluable insights into the challenges faced by new technology ventures. Helle's expertise encompasses technology implementation, marketing, and strategic business development.
After moving to California in 2002, Helle attended California State University, Fresno, and worked with local businesses and entities. In 2011, she joined the Water, Energy, and Technology Center, initially as a program manager. During her leadership, the Center witnessed remarkable growth, with Helle securing over $12 million in support for its programs. She spearheaded multi-year collaborative projects and worked with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, community organizations, and private companies, to drive sustainable economic growth and technology commercialization.
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Charrisha Hillery, F3 Local Program Manager
Charrisha Hillery serves as the F3 Local Program Manager. Prior to taking this role, Charrisha managed the Fresno Farm Box CSA since its inception in 2021, a Black-owned and operated, innovative marketplace that supports local growers and producers, and educates the local community about the importance of eating seasonal foods. A recent dietetics graduate with nearly a decade of experience working within local food systems statewide, Charrisha brings firsthand experience in local startups and agrifood business management. She seeks to leverage her expertise and professional networks to support the best of California agriculture and innovation, and the Farmers who make it all possible.
F3 Local is part of the larger F3 Initiative, awarded funding in 2022 by the U.S. Economic Development Administration’s Build Back Better Regional Challenge. This Climate-Smart Agrifood Technology and Engineering Cluster is working to position the Central Valley’s ag-based industry and farmers to be competitive, resilient, and sustainable.
Let's build the future of food together!
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