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Institute for Food and Agriculture

Projects

Center of Excellence of Poultry Processing



To ensure California HSI students have equal access to essential poultry processing skills, we propose a Center of Excellence. By leveraging existing resources and partnerships with high schools and HSIs, we'll enhance technical training and career opportunities. Our innovative curriculum, available online and in person at a pilot processing plant, promotes experiential learning and leadership development. These modules aim to set the standard in processing education, boosting career readiness for poultry science, warehouse technician, and maintenance mechanics students. We'll also facilitate interviews at international career programs and regional job fairs, connecting students with private companies, government agencies, and nonprofits. Prioritizing California HSI students fosters equity and competitiveness, benefiting over 3,600 students.

USDA NIFA

USDA NIFA awarded grant collaboration between Fresno State and Fresno City College

Flying the COOP

Empowering Underrepresented Students to Broaden Poultry Processing Career Horizons in the COOP Center of Excellence

USDA Priority Need Areas met through the award: 

Attract and support undergraduate and graduate students from underrepresented groups in order to prepare them for careers related to the food, agricultural and natural resources systems and sciences in the United States. 
Enhance the quality of postsecondary instruction within the above disciplines. 
Provide opportunities and access to food and agricultural careers in the public and private sector. 
Align the efforts of HSIs and other non-profit organizations to support academic development and career attainment of underrepresented groups. 

Find the USDA project page here