The Food Processing & Agriculture
is "Under Construction."
The original RJI Implementation Plan ended in December 2008. In January 2010, Jordan College of Agricultural Sciences at California State University, Fresno, became a partner in the Food Processing & Ag Cluster.
Food Processing & Agriculture Spotlight
- Look Who is in Fresno County. Click here and scroll down.
Key Areas of Focus
- Support Careers in Manufacturing Technology (CIMT) Program, which comprises:
Supervisor Training
Internship Program
Annual Career Expo
High School Outreach
- Promote and connect local food processors through online exposure and regular meetings/events
- Develop an Institute for Food and Nutrition (IFNI), an applied research center focused on R&D for new product development, process development, product evaluation, and packaging, through partnership with California State University Fresno’s College of Agriculture Sciences
- Explore hosting and/or supporting a Costco Food Symposium
- Develop a network of resources
Short-term Goals
- Cluster brainstorm to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats
- Recruit Cluster Chair and advisory committee
- Develop mission and update goals/objectives
- Develop meeting schedules and communication preferences
- Update and enhance online exposure and tools
- Engage industry stakeholders
Background
The San Joaquin Valley did not earn the nickname the Nation’s Salad Bowl for nothing. The food processing industry spans the agriculture industry as well, encompassing public and private organizations that are engaged in research, development, manufacturing, and/or delivery of goods and services related to the production, sales, marketing, and distribution of food. The industry also includes meat and poultry, dairy, fruits and vegetables, beverages, baked goods, candy, and seeds and nuts. These products are sold to food service, retail, wholesale and re-manufacturing firms--the major market for the Valley's food products. Suppliers to food manufacturers, including farms, and suppliers of machinery, engineering, chemicals, packaging and logistics are critical to the success of food manufacturing and are also part of the cluster.
Co-Chairs
Dr. Charles Boyer, Dean
Jordan College of Ag Science & Technology
California State University, Fresno
Bill Smittcamp, President
Wawona Frozen Foods
Manager
Mark Miller
Jason Ryan & Associates
559.355.2355
mmiller@jrajobs.com
Resource Organizations
California Grape and Tree Fruit League
California League of Food Processors
Nisei Farmers League
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