Worcester Business Journal

wbjournal.com | August 22, 2022 | Worcester Business Journal 31 When Oliva started at Organomation in 2012, he had neither a background in hard science nor any exposure to chemical analysis laboratory equipment. But within five years, he had climbed the ranks to become the company's general manager. In his 10 years at the evaporation solutions provider, Oliva has helped overhaul the company's website twice, installing better SEO search optimi- zation and product videos; redrafted the company's logo, tag line, and stationary; revamped distribution to get more exposure in markets such as Europe, Latin Amer- ica, southeast Asia, and India; adopted customer relationship software, producing better quotes in less time, and much more. Of all his accomplishments, one of Oliva's proudest is building a hard-working, talented team with more diversity. The company only had one woman working there when he started 10 years ago; that figure that now lingers around 40%. This year, Oliva became a virtual mentor for UStrive, which connects students with mentors to help with the college application process. In the community, he stocks the Little Free Pantry near his home in Boxborough. - L.F. What movie best encapsulates your personality? "It's a Wonderful Life" What Central Mass. restaurant should everyone try at least once? The 1761 Old Mill in Westminster. The location is beautiful in all seasons, and the pecan rolls served with every meal are great. Who is most responsible for the person you are today? My dad. His working career taught me about opportunity, sacrifice, and work ethic. What one person would you like to meet in the next 15 years? A more content version of myself. David Oliva, 34 General manager Organomation, in Berlin Residence: Boxborough Birthplace: Concord College: Western New England University Sears Randle's passion for agriculture started early. She grew up on a dairy farm in Western Mass., making her a fourth-generation working farmer. She graduated from Cornell University, where she studied agribusiness, received her law degree from the Western New England University School of Law, and interned at American Farm Bureau in Washington, D.C., the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, and the Connecticut Attorney General's Office before formally entering the agricultural policy field through the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. Today, Sears Randle is the first female to ever receive an appointment as deputy commissioner at MDAR. She was instrumental in leading the commonwealth's food system through the pandemic, notably by developing and publishing more than 20 guidance documents to ensure farms, farmers markets, and food system businesses could continue to operate, including the deployment of $36 million through the Food Security Infrastructure Grant program. She's secured U.S. Department of Agriculture grant funding for the commonwealth, including $7.5 million to purchase and distribute food from socially disadvantaged farmers and producers to underserved communities, and securing $500,000 for developing a mental health program for the agricultural community at MDAR. - L.F. Would you rather live on the equator or in Antarctica? Equator. While nowhere compares to the changing of the seasons in New England, I prefer to enjoy an iced coffee in the sunshine than the cold. What will Central Mass. be like in 10 years? A diverse, vibrant community where rural and urban businesses are thriving, locally produced and fresh food is abundant, WooSox games are religion, and the next generation of leaders is emerging. What key to business success do most people not know about? Leadership of a business or organization is a privilege. You have the opportunity to impact colleagues' and customers' lives on a daily basis. Make sure it's in a positive and meaningful way. Ashley Sears Randle, 33 Deputy commissioner/legislative & policy director Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources, in Southborough Residence: Sterling Birthplace: South Deerfield Colleges: Cornell University, Western New England University School of Law Congratulations to our own Leah Motsis and all the other 40 Under Forty recipients. We applaud you for making a difference in our community. Whatever It Takes To meet the needs of our kids & community Be part of our team and visit us at: www.bgcworcester.org Seven Hills is proud to celebrate Tim Johnson as a member of the WBJ 40 Under 40 Class of 2022! As the Vice President of Seven Hills ASPiRE!, Tim is the ultimate champion for adults with disabilities in the Worcester area, ensuring a myriad of opportunities for individuals in our programs to achieve their fullest potential. Every day at Seven Hills, Tim sets the #1 example for what it takes to be a top 40 Under 40! 81 Hope Avenue, Worcester, MA 01603 • 508.755.2340 • sevenhills.org Congratulations, Tim! 4 0 U N D E R F O R T Y

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