CSIFT Industry Mentorship Program

Scholarship Recipient Mentor Program

Become a mentor for the 2025 Mentorship Program. The students are the recipients of a scholarship as part of the Chicagoland Food Science Foundation’s Competitive Scholarship Program. The students range from Freshmen to Graduate Students.

The program includes the following:

1. Mid-August: Kick-off meeting to share program information, guidelines, expectations, and contracts. 
2. End-August: Discussion of program details to answer any questions. Pairings shared. 
3. 6 meetings (in-person or virtually) over 3 months – between September and November. Each meeting is expected to be about one hour with the meetings occurring approximately every two weeks. 
4. Early December: Wrap-up meeting to provide insights and feedback. 

The students will complete an informational form that you can use to guide your discussions. You will be provided with a tentative schedule with suggested topics, such as:

1. Getting to know each other
2. Strengths & weaknesses/Interpersonal skills
3. Goal setting/career planning
4. Leadership
5. Overcoming challenges – personal, conflict, ethical dilemma
6. Attitude/Initiative
7. Communication/Business Etiquette
8. Job search/interviewing
9. Understanding Careers in the Food Industry
10. Open Forum

Mentor Program for Those New to the Food Industry or in a New Role

Unlock the power of connection and professional growth with the CSIFT Industry Mentorship Program, launched in 2023 and designed exclusively for members of Chicago Section IFT. This program isn’t just about career development—it’s about building a community where food industry professionals of all experience levels can thrive together.

Mentees

If you’re new to the food industry or stepping into a fresh role, this program is your gateway to personalized support. Gain valuable guidance from seasoned mentors who understand your challenges and are dedicated to helping you succeed. It’s more than mentorship—it’s a partnership focused on unlocking your potential and achieving your career aspirations with confidence.

The Member Mentor Program follows the same general schedule as the CSFS Scholarship Recipient Program, but with a different agenda.