Overview
Austin is known for its farm-to-table industry and attracts visitors from across the country. Over the past decade, restaurants have become increasingly interested in where their food is sourced, and farm-to-table restaurants are on the rise. A collaboration between the Culinary & Agricultural Sciences departments supported development of the Farm-to-Table Entrepreneurship degree. The degree offers students a variety of culinary and agriculture classes with the goal of taking a small business vision to fruition. For students interested in food businesses that source or grow local and sustainable agricultural products, the program includes courses that will prepare the student with the technical competency and business skills for running a farm-to-table business.
Accomplishments
- The Culinary and Agricultural Sciences department chairs presented and received approval for the new associate of applied science (A.A.S.) degree at the January 2023 Curriculum and Programs meeting for implementation in fall 2023 semester.
- The faculty in both programs are finalizing course development for year one courses.
- Faculty and staff are working to update the Elgin farm kitchen to support the program and obtain all necessary inspections for food preparation.
Impact
- Enhanced student enrollment in culinary and agricultural sciences courses and programming
- Enhanced degree completion rates
- Expanded offerings for the Elgin and ACC’s service area
- Enhanced business incubation opportunity through education
Next Steps
- Establish marketing and recruitment plans for the first cohort of students
- Begin course offerings in fall 2023
- Begin tracking student learning outcomes