Introduction of STEM Food Safety Careers to the Underrepresented

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Abstract Title: Introduction of STEM Food Safety Careers to the Underrepresented Authors: Rochelle Olaleye, SO; Frederick Olaleye, PI FDA Strategic Initiative: ORA has a commitment to diversity and an ongoing need for qualified individuals with backgrounds in health-related sciences, regulatory policy, and information technology Abstract: Synopsis The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects food safety employment will rise eight percent by 2026. The global food industry is currently a five trillion-dollar market and employs millions of people worldwide. By 2050, it’s expected that the global population will grow to 9.6 billion, putting increased pressure on the food industry to supply safe and authentic food. A significant increase in skilled workers is needed across the globe. Purpose o To introduce underrepresented STEM students to food safety and manufacturing careers in government agencies, nonprofit organizations and private industries. STEM food careers include ensuring products are safe, wholesome, correctly labeled. Our goals are to introduce underrepresented STEM students to food safety career personnel and potential student internships/fellowships in food safety careers. Methods o We have planned and implemented conferences to educate attendees, connect partners and participants and develop and grow ecosystems. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that food safety employment will rise eight percent by 2026. As many as 2.1 million manufacturing jobs will be unfilled through 2030, according to a study published by Deloitte and The Manufacturing Institute. The report warns the worker shortage will hurt revenue, production and could ultimately cost the US economy up to $1 trillion by 2030. This career conference serves to introduce food safety and food science companies to qualified candidates from underrepresented populations. Results o By introducing new candidate pools, and diverse qualified students to new career opportunities in food science and food safety, we increase the possibilities of diversity in thought and approach to supplying good food to the world markets. Implications o Identifying knowledgeable, skilled workers and leaders in the food industry to supply safe and authentic food to people across the globe is key in sustaining healthy food shifting the focus from responding to foodborne illness to preventing it, as directed in The FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).