Operational skills in business and human resources for future managerial roles in the food industry are also developed. Dr. Nwadike says students are equipped with the necessary skills to drive success in the dairy industry. Multiple alumni in dairy and food sciences have been recognized by the state alumni association’s Legends & Legacy Distinguished Alumni program for expanding the economic development of dairy processing in the state and Midwest. The SDSU alumni association also facilitates an Alumni Mentoring Program , connecting current SDSU students with alumni in professions aligned with their career goals. Caitlin Swanson , a dairy manufacturing 2025 graduate, partook in this program to prepare for her first full-time role post-graduation. She was mentored by Polly Vander Wal of Agropur USA . "You are a person, not a number. Courses are smaller and more personalized, led by professors who can and want students to
succeed in school and life,” said Swanson. “The student and professors stay in contact post-graduation, as well as alumni.” Process technologist Lexi Ahlers and project director of expansion Jake Anderson are two SDSU graduates both employed at Bel Brands USA . “I grew up working on my neighbor's dairy farm, so I had a love of milk from the very beginning,” said Ahlers. “I could make a career out of it and that’s a win, to find my passion and get paid for it.” Both Ahlers and Anderson express gratitude for SDSU and dairy manufacturing, and confidence in their current standing and future. “The dairy manufacturing program is certainly a hidden gem,” said Anderson. “With the 100% job placement, the great wages and benefits, the support from SDSU and the industry scholarships makes it great. It’s a program that doesn't get enough recognition.”
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