| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
| 2025-01-01 | - |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Conestoga College's Food Processing Technician program is a 16-month accelerated diploma that equips students with the skills to operate, maintain, and sanitize food processing equipment in various industries. Through hands-on training and a comprehensive curriculum, graduates are prepared for entry-level positions in the food and beverage processing sector, with potential for career advancement. The optional co-op stream provides valuable industry experience, enhancing career prospects and marketability.
Program Outline
Degree Overview
Program Description:
This 2-year accelerated Ontario College Diploma program, available with an optional co-op stream, focuses on the operation, maintenance, and sanitation of food processing equipment in various industries, such as beverage, fruit, vegetable, dairy, and meat production. Students acquire hand-on experience through the institute's semi-industrial food processing facility.
Program Objectives:
- Equip graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to operate, maintain, and sanitize food processing equipment in various sectors.
- Prepare students for industry positions requiring technical expertise and hands-on experience.
- Equip graduates with the ability to implement quality control measures and contribute to the safe production of high-quality food products.
- Develop graduates' problem-solving skills and encourage critical thinking in the food processing environment.
- Foster a comprehensive understanding of the principles of food science, food processing methods, and food safety regulations.
Program Highlights:
- Practical experience: Extensive hands-on training utilizing industrial food processing equipment at the Conestoga College Institute of Food Processing Technology.
- Accelerated format: Completion of the program in just 16 months.
- Optional co-op: Gain valuable industry experience through an integrated co-op placement in the third term, available in the optional co-op stream.
- Career preparation: Develop the skills and knowledge necessary for entry-level positions in various food processing sectors.
- Comprehensive curriculum: Combines technical training with a focus on food science, processing methods, and safety regulations.
- State-of-the-art facilities: Learn and practice on a diverse range of modern food processing equipment.
Outline
Program Content:
- Industrial maintenance practices.
- Industrial drawings and schematics.
- Machine technology and principles.
- Pumps, valves, motor controls, and PLCs.
- Introduction to food science and food processing methods.
- Food safety principles and regulations.
- Sanitation and hygiene protocols in food production.
- Quality control measures.
- Troubleshooting and problem-solving techniques.
Program Structure:
- Duration: 16 months
- Delivery: Full-time
- Start Dates: September and January (depending on year)
- Credential: Ontario College Diploma
- Credit hours: Total of 80 credits, 4 full-time terms of study
- Co-op option: Optional, offered instead of a traditional career management course during the third term
Assessment
Assessment Methods:
- A combination of continuous assessment and final exams
- Assignments, quizzes, projects, lab reports, presentations
- Practical skills demonstration through lab sessions and simulated work environments
Assessment Criteria:
- Understanding of theoretical concepts
- Application of practical skills and technical knowledge
- Ability to analyze and troubleshoot issues
- Demonstrated knowledge of food safety principles and regulations
- Effective communication and teamwork skills
- Professionalism and work ethic
Teaching
Teaching Methods:
- Interactive lectures and seminars
- Hands-on lab experiences with a focus on practical application
- Case studies and real-world problem-solving scenarios
- Group projects and presentations to encourage collaboration and communication skills
Faculty:
- Experienced food science and engineering instructors
- Industry professionals with expertise in various food processing sectors
Unique Teaching Approaches:
- Emphasis on experiential learning through simulated industry scenarios
- Access to the Institute of Food Processing Technology's modern equipment and facilities
- Collaboration with industry partners for guest lectures and mentorship opportunities
- Incorporation of current food processing technologies and automation practices
- Development of workplace safety habits and adherence to regulations
Careers
Potential Career Paths:
- Food Processing Technician
- Maintenance Technician
- Quality Control Specialist
- Production Technician
- Food Safety Inspector
- Sanitation Technician
- Packaging Technician
Career Opportunities:
- Beverage production facilities
- Fruit and vegetable processing plants
- Dairy and cheese manufacturers
- Meat processing and packaging companies
- Bakery and milling facilities
- Snack food production
- Research and development departments within the food industry
- Consulting and inspection services related to food processing
Career Outcomes:
- Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions in the food processing industry and have strong potential for career advancement with further education or experience.
- The program equips graduates with the technical knowledge and skills to troubleshoot, maintain, and operate various food processing equipment, enhancing their marketability to potential employers.
- The optional co-op placement offers valuable real-world experience and strengthens career prospects within the industry.
- Program device and software requirements may involve additional costs for students, inquire about specific device needs.
- Admission requirements include completion of Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent with specific credits.
Summary
The Food Processing Technician program at Conestoga College offers students a unique combination of hands-on experience, industry-relevant curriculum, and strong career prospects within the growing food and beverage processing industry. This program prepares individuals for success in technical roles requiring expertise in the operation, maintenance, and sanitation of food processing equipment, contributing to high-quality and safe food production processes.
Conestoga College Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning
Overview:
Conestoga College is an Ontario college offering full and part-time studies. It provides a wide range of programs and services to students, including full-time, continuing education, online, apprenticeship, and open programs. The college is known for its focus on applied learning and its commitment to preparing students for successful careers.
Services Offered:
Conestoga College offers a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Academic Support:
Academic integrity resources, accessible learning services, bookstore, eConestoga online learning platform, global opportunities, library services, program technology requirements, student tech help, and tutoring & academic help.Student Support:
Counseling, Indigenous services, medical care clinic, remote service hours, student financial services, and student rights and responsibilities.Get Involved:
Athletics & Recreation, Co-Curricular Record (CCR), CSI - Student association, Orientation, and Student Engagement.Campus Services:
Child care centers, facilities management, food services, IT service desk, lockers, ONE Card, parking & transportation, printing services, safety & security, and student housing.Career & Employment:
Community Career Centre, Conestoga Entrepreneurship Collective, co-operative education, myCareer Services, and Talent Hub.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Conestoga College provides a vibrant and engaging campus experience for students. Students can participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, including athletics, clubs, and student government. The college also offers a range of social events and opportunities for students to connect with their peers and the wider community.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Applied Learning:
Conestoga College emphasizes hands-on learning and practical skills development, preparing students for real-world careers.Career-Focused Programs:
The college offers a wide range of programs designed to meet the needs of employers and prepare students for specific career paths.Strong Industry Partnerships:
Conestoga College has strong relationships with industry partners, providing students with valuable networking opportunities and access to real-world experiences.Supportive Campus Environment:
The college provides a supportive and inclusive environment for students, with a range of services and resources available to help them succeed.Academic Programs:
Conestoga College offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
- Applied Computer Science & Information Technology
- Business
- Community Services
- Creative Industries
- Engineering & Technology
- Health & Life Sciences
- Hospitality & Culinary Arts
- Interdisciplinary Studies
- Trades & Apprenticeship
Other:
Conestoga College has multiple campuses and locations across Ontario, including Brantford, Cambridge, Guelph, Ingersoll, Kitchener, Milton, Stratford, and Waterloo. The college also offers a variety of online programs and courses.
Entry Requirements
Canadian Students:
- Grade 12 Diploma or equivalent, with:
- English (C or U)
- Mathematics (C or U)
- One of the following:
- One of Chemistry, Physics, or Biology (C or U)
- Technology (C or U)
- Technological Design (C or U)
- French (C or U)
- One additional Grade 12 C or U course in any subject , or
- A mature student applicant with appropriate work experience may be considered.
International Students:
- Completion of secondary school with transcript showing grades or equivalent, or
- Completion of a recognized diploma or degree program
- Demonstrated proficiency in English
EU Home Students:
- Same as for Canadian Students (see above)
International Overseas Students Outside the EU:
However, English is the language of instruction at the College, and all academic materials and communication will be in English. students must have a strong command of the English language to be successful in their studies.
International students whose first language is not English must meet the following minimum English language proficiency requirements:
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): 80 overall with a minimum of 19 in Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System): 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each band
- PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic): 62 overall with a minimum of 56 in Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking
- CanTEST (Canadian Academic English Language Assessment): Level 4 in Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking
