Food Processing Technician (Optional Co-op)

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Courses - January 2026

Level 1

Course details

College Reading & Writing Skills
COMM1085

Description: This course introduces students to the reading, writing, and critical thinking skills needed for academic and workplace success. Students will analyse a variety of texts and apply the steps of planning, writing, and revising to produce writing that meets the expectations of selected audiences and purposes. The course prepares students for college-level writing tasks, research, and documentation by asking them to produce clear, informed, and purposeful documents relevant to both academic and professional contexts.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Computer Applications
COMP1255

Description: The student is introduced to the basics of computer operating systems and file management. The student will gain practical knowledge of various software applications such as: Word, Excel, PowerPoint and others that will facilitate technical communication. The use of search tools for accessing information and online communication will also be covered. Keyboarding to a minimum proficiency level will be developed.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Conestoga 101
CON0101

Description: This self-directed course focuses on introducing new students to the supports, services, and opportunities available at Conestoga College. By the end of this course, students will understand the academic expectations of the Conestoga learning environment, as well as the supports available to ensure their academic success. Students will also be able to identify on-campus services that support their health and wellness, and explore ways to get actively involved in the Conestoga community through co-curricular learning opportunities.
  • Hours: 1
  • Credits: 0
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Food Safety - Level 1
FOOD1205

Description:

The Food Safety Course is designed to provide the student with general knowledge of food safety including food safety hazards, Good Manufacturing Practices and food safety systems, as well as basic knowledge of food plant security and of the impact of food manufacturing on the environment. The content is based on the MTCU schedule of training for a Process Operator - Food Manufacturing apprenticeship program.

  • Hours: 70
  • Credits: 5
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Food Processing I
FOOD1215

Description: This course will give students an introduction to the Food Industry, and also cover principles of food science and food composition, basic processing methods, and food regulations. Students will be introduced to food processing equipment in the pilot plant as well as to food testing in the laboratory.
  • Hours: 70
  • Credits: 5
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Applied Technical Mathematics I
MATH1510

Description: This course, when successfully completed, will provide an understanding of terminology, basic concepts and applications of fractions, ratio, proportion, percent, unit conversion, pre-algebra, and basic algebra in solving technical problems pertaining to Millwrighting. The fundamentals of International System of Units (SI) will be discussed to assist students in developing a functional knowledge of the metric system. Perform occupational calculations in the imperial and metric systems to solve technical problems pertaining to Millwrighting.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Machine Technology I
MILL1250

Description: To develop in the student knowledge of ferrous and non-ferrous metals, basic heat treatment procedures, knowledge and applications of power saws, grinders, and identify and select various types and qualities of fasteners used in the food processing industry.
  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Workshop Practice
MILL1350

Description:

This course will develop the student’s knowledge of safety legislation, lock-out and isolation procedures, protective clothing and equipment, confined space procedures, housekeeping rules, fire, electrical and chemical hazards. In addition, students will gain skill in the selection, safe use and care of the cutting and non-cutting tools, as well as units of measurement used in a mechanical workshop and skill in the use of measuring devices.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:
Electives: General Education
Student must pass 1 Course(s), selected in the Student Portal from available course options

Level 2

Course details

Co-op and Career Preparation
CEPR1020

Description: This series of modules will prepare students for job searching for their co-op work terms with the guidance of a Coop Advisor. Students will familiarize themselves with the co-operative education policies and procedures and will learn the expectations, rules, and regulations that apply in the workplace regarding social, organizational, ethical, and safety issues while developing an awareness of self-reflective practices. Students will reflect on their skills, attitudes, and expectations and examine available opportunities in the workplace. Successful completion of these modules is a requirement for co-op eligibility.
  • Hours: 14
  • Credits: 1
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Technical Communications
COMM1130

Description:

In this course, students will learn professional writing and presentation skills required for effective technical communication in the workplace. They will learn to write technical documents by applying standard technical writing style and analyzing their forms and uses for target audiences, purposes, and contexts. They will also learn to write formal technical proposals or reports using research and documentation skills.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: COMM1085
  • CoRequisites:

Electrical Theory, Motor Controls and HRAC
ELEC1770

Description:

This course covers knowledge of electrical and electronic theory and practice, electrical components and circuits, electrical safety (lock outs and shut off procedures) and applications found in HRAC and other equipment as it relates to food manufacturing. The course covers diagnostic testing and describes the application of electronic devices (pressure switches, flow switches, timers, solenoids and igniters) while also introducing the student to AC/DC current, single-phase and three-phase circuits. Introduce basic knowledge of electrical and electronic terminology used in schematics. Students will gain a basic knowledge of the application of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) in automated processes. Use of meters to diagnose electrical problems relative to gas/oil heating controls and refrigeration equipment will be studied. Electromagnetic theory will be introduced through practical applications (AC & DC motors). This course also covers the basic principles of thermodynamics and their application to the refrigeration system.

  • Hours: 105
  • Credits: 6
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Food Processing II
FOOD1240

Description:

This hands-on course will provide the students with practical knowledge of food processing methods (e.g. pasteurization, cooking, filling, capping, and packaging), food safety, equipment sanitation, and food testing. Through pilot plant trials complemented with theory sessions, students will understand food manufacturing concepts such as quality, traceability, statistical process control, continuous improvement, preventative maintenance, lean manufacturing, sustainability and waste management.

  • Hours: 112
  • Credits: 6
  • Pre-Requisites: COMM1085 AND FOOD1215
  • CoRequisites:

Introduction to Mechanical Systems and Repair
MECH1185

Description:

Students will be given an introduction to mechanical equipment and procedures for maintenance and repair including shop safety. Basic functions and usage of millwright equipment, hand and power tools, precision and measuring tools will be introduced through the completion of millwright projects. Students will gain hands-on experience on food processing equipment in a mechanical shop.

  • Hours: 70
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites: MILL1250 AND MILL1350
  • CoRequisites:

Machine Technology II
MILL1285

Description: This course will develop in the student, knowledge in the types, applications and maintenance of air compressors, process pumps, valves, piping and ancillary equipment.
  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites: MILL1250 AND MILL1350
  • CoRequisites:
Electives: General Education
Student must pass 1 Course(s), selected in the Student Portal from available course options

Level 3

Course details

Co-op Work Term (Food Processing Technician)
COOP1200

Description: This co-op work term will provide students with college-approved work experience in an authentic, professionally relevant work environment. Students will be provided the opportunity to connect theory and practice by leveraging their academic training to develop a broad base of vocational skills. The practical applications of this work term will promote students’ awareness of key concepts and terminology in their field, cultivate their problem-solving and decision-making capabilities, encourage their development of professional autonomy and collaboration, and enhance their capacity to analyze and reflect on their demonstrated abilities in the workplace.
  • Hours: 420
  • Credits: 14
  • Pre-Requisites: CDEV1020 OR CEPR1020
  • CoRequisites:

Level 4

Course details

Drawings and Schematics
DRWG1195

Description: This course will allow the learner to read and interpret engineering drawings and schematics, effectively use manufacturers’ manuals to aid in the building, rebuilding and maintenance of equipment, and sketch and draw machine components using a variety of drawing techniques.
  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Principles of Manufacturing
FOOD1220

Description:

The student will be given an overview of key topics in a manufacturing business. Areas include: Business, Leadership and Teamwork, Quality Concepts, Traceability, Statistical Process Control, Continuous Improvement, Preventative Maintenance, Lean Manufacturing, Sustainability and Environmental Impact.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Food Processing III
FOOD1550

Description: Students will further their knowledge and skills while running a food production line. Improvements to Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) from an operations perspective will be the focus of the course.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites: FOOD1240
  • CoRequisites:

Industrial Maintenance Theory and Applications
MILL1360

Description:

This course will provide the student the necessary theoretical knowledge of industrial maintenance principles (i.e. predictive, preventative, corrective) and applications including using a work order system and available preventive maintenance software. Students will develop preventative maintenance programs for food processing equipment.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Power Transmission
MILL2090

Description:

To develop knowledge to identify, select and install the appropriate power transmission system and/or components for a specific application.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites: MILL1280 OR MILL1285
  • CoRequisites:

Fluid Power
MILL2100

Description:

To develop: knowledge and application of safety procedures related to Fluid Power systems; knowledge and applications of basic pneumatic and hydraulic systems; the ability to identify, select and install pneumatic and hydraulic pipe systems and related valves; the ability to perform relevant calculations.

  • Hours: 70
  • Credits: 5
  • Pre-Requisites: MILL1280 OR MILL1285
  • CoRequisites:
Electives: General Education
Student must pass 1 Course(s), selected in the Student Portal from available course options

Program outcomes

  1. Operate complex and automated food processing equipment according to industry standard principles and practices.
  2. Use equipment hardware and software to support effective food manufacturing processes (e.g. PLCs & CAD Simulators).
  3. Apply quality control and quality assurance procedures to food manufacturing.
  4. Apply food safety concepts to the manufacture of food products.
  5. Solve routine technical problems relating to the mechanics of equipment and premises typical in a food manufacturing environment.
  6. Create and interpret technical documentation typical in a food manufacturing environment.
  7. Maintain food manufacturing equipment typical in food processing, within specified operational parameters through the application of preventative, predictive, and industrial maintenance theory.
  8. Perform tasks effectively both individually and as a member of a work team.
  9. Perform tasks in accordance with legislation, safe practices, policies, procedures, standards, regulations and ethical principles.
  10. Use precision measuring equipment and perform basic machining skills to support equipment assessment and repair.