Summer Mentor Program Overview
“ It’s a learning experience that goes above working with just wine; it is also for everyday life things.”
The Fields of Opportunity Summer Mentor Program connects Napa Valley high school students with the local wine industry, offering meaningful career exposure and professional development.
Created in partnership with Napa Valley Grapegrowers, Napa Valley Unified School District, and Napa Valley Education Foundation, participants come from diverse academic backgrounds and programs, including alternative and independent study. The mentorship program offers an impactful way to introduce students to the wine industry, sharing knowledge and passion for the field with the next generation through support and skill-building.
The program aims to place each qualified student and supports growth in Napa Valley’s wine industry workforce. Adjacent programs include the Fields of Opportunity Alumni Network.
Fields of Opportunity:
8-Week Summer Mentor Program
The Fields of Opportunity program opens the door to an unforgettable summer. Imagine hands-on work experience, learning alongside Napa Valley grape growers, and skill-building workshops designed to set up a bright future. Each role is paid, with students receiving a stipend for participating in all workshops.
Work experience roles may include:
Viticulture Technology: Counting, tracking, and measuring
Irrigation Department: Inventory, maintenance, and repairs
Mechanics Department: Maintenance, repairs, and welding
Tasting Room/Hospitality: Greeting guests, setting and bussing tables
Office: Filing, event support, and data entry
Vineyards: Canopy management and weed control
Cellar and Winery Production: Barrel cleaning, hose maintenance, and data tracking
Beyond a paycheck, this is a chance to shape the future, gain insights from leaders in a world-class industry, and build skills that will be invaluable in any career.
Fields of Opportunity offers a journey like no other—one where each day brings new skills, friendships, and steps toward an extraordinary future.
Why Students Should Apply
Whether driven by a clear goal to enter the wine industry or simply a curiosity to learn more, this program offers a unique opportunity. Participants gain invaluable insights from industry leaders dedicated to Napa Valley's future and committed to fostering the next generation. Alongside a cohort of like-minded peers, students develop a vision of the leader and professional they aspire to become.
This paid mentorship goes beyond a summer job—it’s an investment in personal growth, an opportunity to expand horizons, and an invitation to dream big. With support at every step, it promises a rewarding and transformative experience.
Criteria For Students to Apply
Priority is given to students from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds
Currently enrolled in high school at the time of application
Age 16 or older
Able to commit to the full 8-week program
Interest in exploring a career in the wine industry
Positive attitude and eagerness to learn new skills
Flexibility to take on a variety of tasks in the vineyard and winery as required by the position
2025 Key Dates for Students
Application Period: March 1 - March 31
Student Interviews: April 1- April 12
Selection Date: April 30
Program Duration: June 16, 2025 - August 8, 2025
The Mentors
Most have had someone who offered guidance, shared wisdom or helped open doors along their career path. Fields of Opportunity is a chance to do just that for a local high school student beginning to explore their future.
Some students in this program are already interested in the wine industry, while others are eager to discover it. This program offers an invaluable way to share knowledge and passion, inviting local students into the fold.
2025 Participating Mentors
Corison Winery
Far Niente Wine Estates
Foley Johnson Winery
Hagafen Cellars
Huneeus Vintners
Larkmead Vineyards
Napa Wine Company
Opus One Winery
Palisades Vineyard and Palisades Canyon Wines
Pine Ridge Vineyards
Rios Farming Co.
Silverado Farming Company
Trefethen Family Vineyards
Tres Sabores
V. Sattui Winery
Yount Mill Vineyards
To become a mentor, please complete the form below:
Participating Mentor/Employers
Beckstoffer Vineyards
Corison
Far Niente
Foley Family Wines
Grgich Hills Estate
Hagafen Cellars
Hall Wines
Huneeus Wines
Opus One
Palisades Vineyard-Historic Vines
Pine Ridge Vineyards
Silverado Farming Company
The Napa Valley Reserve
Tom Eddy Winery
Trefethen
Tres Sabores
V. Sattui
Viader Vineyards & Winery
Walsh Vineyards Management
Yount Mill Vineyards