Lakeland opens Johnsonville Food Safety & Quality Lab
Lakeland University held a ribbon cutting ceremony on April 10 to officially open the Johnsonville Food Safety & Quality Lab.
The lab will be a primary learning space for students enrolled in the new bachelor’s degree in food safety and quality, the only program of its kind in the nation.
Lakeland received a $500,000 gift from Johnsonville to fund creation of the state-of-the-art lab, located on the second floor of the Chase Science Center. Johnsonville also donated manufacturing equipment to simulate a food manufacturing plant, and SSL Industries donated USDA-approved stainless steel tables and product line.
The lab will allow students to have hands-on experiences that replicate the work they will find on the job.
Lakeland partnered with some of Wisconsin’s biggest food manufacturers to launch the bachelor’s degree, which is focused on the safe production of food. Corporate food partners include Johnsonville, Sargento, Masters Gallery Foods, Old Wisconsin, Usinger’s, Klement’s Sausage and Miesfeld’s.
Lakeland’s program blends the science of biology and chemistry with best business practices to prepare students for careers in food processing. Graduates will be well-rounded manufacturing professionals equipped to advance in the production of food, while also possessing finance, management philosophy and other skills needed to lead people to their potential.
