Assiniboine College Introduces New Food Services Management Diploma

Assiniboine College is set to launch a new diploma program in food services management 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.

The program has been described as a transformative opportunity for the food services sector. According to Karen O’Gilvie, chairperson of the Manitoba Institute of Culinary Arts, “We’ve built a curriculum that blends leadership, legislation, and logistics with a deep commitment to client care and satisfaction.” Graduates will gain the skills necessary to manage complex food systems across various settings, emphasizing both confidence and compassion.

Curriculum Focus and Student Outcomes

The curriculum will integrate operational planning, regulatory compliance, and client-focused service delivery. It places a notable emphasis on developing leadership skills, enabling students to navigate the demands of a growing industry effectively. Assiniboine College stated that graduates will emerge with the capability to manage intricate operations and lead teams adeptly.

Deanna Rexe, the college’s vice-president of academic affairs, highlighted the program’s alignment with real-world needs. “This new offering reflects our dedication to applied learning and workforce readiness,” she noted. “Students will graduate with the skills and knowledge to lead in high-demand sectors and make meaningful contributions to their communities.”

Students enrolled in the program will learn to design and implement menus that cater to diverse dietary and cultural needs. They will also develop the ability to manage staff and budgets, ensure compliance with food safety regulations, and deliver high-quality service that aligns with organizational objectives. The program particularly emphasizes cultivating leadership competencies such as strategic thinking, team building, and ethical decision-making, all vital for success in service-driven environments.

Support from Provincial Leadership

The introduction of this program is seen as a significant investment in student success. René Cable, the province’s Minister of Advanced Education and Training, remarked, “Graduates will leave with the practical skills and leadership training needed to step confidently into high-demand roles. This kind of targeted education ensures students are not just job-ready — they’re career-ready.”

With its focus on applicable skills and leadership development, Assiniboine College’s new food services management diploma program represents a strategic initiative to meet the evolving needs of the food services industry and support workforce development in the region.