Central Lakes College Tackles Meat Processing Demand with State-of-the-Art Facility
The growing demand for skilled meat cutters has led Central Lakes College (CLC) to expand its butchery program. With the unveiling of a modular meat processing facility, the Staples campus is addressing a pressing workforce need.
This achievement, made possible through partnerships and federal funding, marks a significant step for education and the meat industry.
A Modern Solution to a National Challenge
The COVID-19 pandemic exposed gaps in the meat processing workforce. “It became obvious to everyone that meat cutting and butchery was a really important workforce need that we were not meeting as a nation,” said CLC President Dr. Hara Charlier.
The $604,000 Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program grant and $1.5 million Rural Economic Development Loan were instrumental in funding the project.
In collaboration with the Minnesota Farmers Union (MFU), the facility offers two mobile processing units: one for aging meat and another for cutting and wrapping.
A Boost to Education and Local Economy
This new addition transforms the student experience. Previously, students had to travel to various training sites. Now, the centralized location enhances learning, reduces travel costs, and attracts prospective students.
The one-semester program allows students to gain hands-on experience using state-of-the-art equipment. In turn, the local economy benefits from the expanded workforce and reduced logistical costs.
Collaboration Key to Success
The $9 million project showcases the power of teamwork. Partners such as the CLC Ag & Energy Center, EDA, AURI, and USDA Rural Development joined forces to make the facility a reality.
“No institution could have achieved this type of comprehensive solution without these tremendous partnerships,” Dr. Charlier emphasized.
This facility not only addresses immediate workforce needs but also underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in shaping the future of rural development.
Interested in the future of meat processing education and how it’s shaping the workforce? Learn more about the innovations in meat processing by visiting our homepage.
