Mazama High School CTE Agriculture: Food Production & Processing Program

From Farm to Table – Discover the Science of Food Production!

The Agriculture: Food Production & Processing Program at Mazama High School offers students an in-depth look at the journey of food from the farm to the consumer. This program provides hands-on experiences that blend classroom learning with practical skills in agriculture, food processing, and leadership. Whether you’re interested in sustainable farming, food science, or agricultural business, this program will prepare you for exciting careers in the agriculture and food industries.

Why Choose the Agriculture Program?

With the global demand for food increasing, careers in agriculture and food production are more critical than ever. Our program equips students with the knowledge and skills to excel in fields like food science, farming, food safety, and agricultural technology. Through hands-on projects, leadership opportunities in FFA, and partnerships with local farms, you’ll gain a well-rounded understanding of how food systems work.

Program Highlights:

• Hands-On Learning: Learn by doing through projects in farming, greenhouse management, food safety, and food product development.

• Leadership Development: Become part of the national Future Farmers of America (FFA) organization, where you’ll gain leadership experience and compete in agriculture-related events.

• College Credit Opportunities: Earn dual credits through courses that give you a head start on college programs in agriculture or food science.

Agriculture Program Course Offerings:

Food Product Processing I (Grades 9-12 | 0.5 Credit)

Learn the basics of food production and processing, focusing on safety and sanitation, nutrition, quality control, and equipment care. This course also covers food preservation techniques and consumer trends in food products, providing the foundation for more advanced courses in the program.

Food Product Processing II (Grades 9-12 | 0.5 Credit | Prerequisite: Food Product Processing I)

Dive deeper into the food production process by exploring government regulations, consumer trends, and niche marketing. Students will also learn about the development and processing of food products for the market, with a focus on research, licensing, and food safety protocols.

Cultural Foods Production & Processing (Grades 9-12 | 0.5 Credit)

Explore how agricultural practices around the world influence food production and culture. This course examines global food production systems, world hunger issues, and the role of food in various cultures. Students also learn practical skills for producing and manufacturing culturally significant foods.

Food Science & Industry (Grades 10-12 | 1.0 Credit | Prerequisite: Food Product Processing I & II)

Gain an advanced understanding of the science behind food production. This course focuses on the production and processing of agricultural products, emphasizing topics like food safety, product development, and the scientific principles behind food manufacturing.

BBQ Science (Grades 10-12 | 0.5 Credit | Prerequisite: Food Product Processing I & II)

This fun and innovative course explores the science and techniques of barbecuing and grilling. Students will learn the history of barbecue, fuel sources, and methods for grilling meats and vegetables. Additionally, students will create their own seasonings and sauces for grilling and barbecuing.

Leadership Through FFA

Mazama’s Agriculture Program is closely tied to FFA (Future Farmers of America), a national organization that promotes leadership, personal growth, and career success in agriculture. As a member of FFA, you’ll have the opportunity to:

• Participate in agriculture competitions at the state and national levels.

• Gain leadership skills through organizing events, managing projects, and working with teams.

• Engage in community service projects related to agriculture and food security.

• Earn awards and recognition for your achievements in agriculture.

Career Pathways:

The Agriculture: Food Production & Processing Program prepares you for a range of careers in the growing fields of agriculture and food science, including:

• Culinary Arts Positions such as line cooks, kitchen staff, and other food industry professions

• Farming and Ranching

• Food Scientist or Food Safety Specialist

• Agricultural Business Manager

• Greenhouse or Nursery Manager

• Livestock and Animal Science Specialist

With the hands-on experience and foundational knowledge you gain in the program, you’ll be ready for further education or to step into the workforce right after high school.

Hands-On Learning Opportunities:

Students in the Agriculture Program gain practical skills through a variety of hands-on projects, including:

• Master your cooking skills through hands-on cooking labs where you learn recipes from scratch every week.

• Managing the Mazama greenhouse and growing produce for the community.

• Overseeing livestock projects, including the management of feeder lambs and the school's poultry facility.

• Participating in food production and processing projects, where students develop, package, and market their own food products.

• Leading community agriculture initiatives through FFA and other school partnerships.

Make an Impact on the Future of Food

From sustainable agriculture to food production and safety, careers in this field are vital to feeding the world’s growing population. Mazama’s CTE Agriculture: Food Production & Processing Program gives you the tools and experience to be part of the solution. Join today, and start your journey toward a meaningful and impactful career in agriculture.