Assiniboine College Launches Diploma for Future Food Service Leaders

Assiniboine College is set to introduce a new diploma program in food services management, scheduled to commence in September 2026. This initiative aims to prepare students for leadership roles in large-scale institutional food service environments, including hospitals, schools, and correctional facilities.

Curriculum Focuses on Leadership and Client Care

The program is designed to equip graduates with a strong foundation in managing complex food systems, according to the chairperson of the Manitoba Institute of Culinary Arts, Karen O’Gilvie. She highlighted the curriculum’s emphasis on blending leadership skills, regulatory knowledge, and client-focused service delivery. “We’ve built a curriculum that blends leadership, legislation, and logistics with a deep commitment to client care and satisfaction,” O’Gilvie stated.

Students will engage in operational planning, regulatory compliance, and high-quality service delivery, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the demands of the industry. The college aims to produce graduates who can manage food services with both confidence and compassion.

Commitment to Real-World Needs

The Vice President of Academic Affairs at Assiniboine, Deanna Rexe, emphasized the college’s dedication to applied learning. “This new offering reflects our dedication to applied learning and workforce readiness,” Rexe remarked. She noted that students will acquire the necessary skills to lead in sectors that are increasingly in demand and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

As part of the program, students will learn to design menus that cater to diverse dietary and cultural preferences, manage staff and budgets, and ensure adherence to food safety legislation. The curriculum also places a strong emphasis on developing leadership competencies, such as strategic thinking, team building, and ethical decision-making—skills that are crucial for success in service-oriented environments.

Minister of Advanced Education and Training, René Cable, commented on the program’s potential impact, stating, “Graduates will leave with the practical skills and leadership training needed to step confidently into high-demand roles.” Cable added that this targeted education prepares students to be not just job-ready but also career-ready in the evolving food services landscape.

With the launch of this diploma program, Assiniboine College is making a significant investment in the future of its students and the broader food services industry. The program’s emphasis on leadership, operational competence, and client care is expected to shape a new generation of professionals equipped to navigate the complexities of food service management.