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The Western Association of Food
Chains is pleased to announce the new WAFC Retail
Management Certificate Program, a 10-course
college-level program that has been fully endorsed by
the Western Association of Food Chains and its
member companies. The certificate’s curriculum was
developed out of a collaborative effort between several
food industry and college professionals and encompasses
several business essentials, including the "soft skills"
of management and communication required for career
success in the retail food industry.
Any interested community college
in the 14 Western United States can seek approval to
offer the WAFC Retail Management Certificate. (It is
important to note that many community colleges already
offer similar curriculum. However, the WAFC has endorsed
and will advertise/recognize only those colleges that
have adopted course curriculum/guidelines consistent
with those established by the WAFC Retail Management
Curriculum Advisory Group. -- This consistency is
critical for WAFC member-students, since the WAFC
desires to formally recognize and financially reward
those employees who successfully complete the WAFC
endorsed certificate).
- Industry-provided incentives that increase
enrollment and add prestige to the certificate
(i.e., WAFC honorarium, luncheon, and specially
recognized certificate for those who successfully
complete the program)
- Direct internal marketing for courses that may
have dwindling enrollment.
- Increased opportunities for curriculum
development and updating of curriculum with industry
input.
- Opportunities for faculty revitalization in
technical subject areas.
- Opportunities for guest speakers from the "real
world" of the business community to address college
classes about careers in the food industry, business
trends affecting the local economy, etc.
- Possible recruitment and internship
opportunities for students.
Employees of WAFC member companies who complete the
entire certificate program will receive the following:
- Dual Certification: a specially recognized
educational certificate awarded by the WAFC, as well
as a Retail Management Certificate from the college
they have attended.
- Special recognition luncheon (taking place
annually for all participating chains)
- A WAFC honorarium (monetary award) for their
scholastic achievement
- Many of the WAFC Member companies are also
awarding a matching honorarium or tuition
reimbursement to their employees.
Students are advised to contact their HR Departments
for company specific details.
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