Food Products and Processing Systems in North Carolina
North Carolina's food products and processing systems pathway prepares students for careers in food manufacturing and processing. Students develop expertise in food safety, processing techniques, quality control, and food science. North Carolina's food processing industry creates employment opportunities.
Curriculum covers food science principles, processing operations, food safety systems (HACCP), quality control, and equipment operation. Students work in food processing laboratories and facilities. Learning emphasizes food safety and process efficiency.
Graduates work as food processing technicians, quality control specialists, food safety supervisors, and production managers for food manufacturers and processing companies. Many advance to plant management roles.
Food Products and Processing Systems at a Glance
2
Courses
8
Credentials
4
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
North Carolina's food products and processing curriculum aligns with food manufacturing and safety standards. Students complete 4-6 pathway units covering food science, processing, and quality as defined by NC DPI.
Programs teach food safety regulations, HACCP systems, and processing procedures. Students develop quality control and process management skills.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course | Code |
|---|---|
| Foods I | FN41 |
| Foods II - Technology | FN43 |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
- ✓CPR/AED for Healthcare Providers (BLS)
- ✓First Aid
- ✓Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
- ✓Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)
- ✓EKG Technician
- ✓Pharmacy Technician (PTCB)
- ✓NOCTI Emergency and Medical Services
- ✓NOCTI Health Assistant
Career Opportunities
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.
Processing Technician
Entry LevelSalary range: $42,180 - $63,900
Adjusted for cost of living: $44,806
Quality Control Inspector
Entry LevelSalary range: $36,300 - $53,950
Adjusted for cost of living: $38,560
Production Supervisor
ExperiencedSalary range: $53,230 - $80,850
Adjusted for cost of living: $70,788
Plant Manager
ExperiencedSalary range: $64,450 - $158,460
Adjusted for cost of living: $105,364
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Students intern at food processing plants and manufacturing facilities throughout North Carolina's food production regions.
Career & Technical Student Organization
Students in this pathway can participate in SkillsUSA, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.
How Sage Helps North Carolina CTE Programs
AI-Powered Curriculum
Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months
North Carolina Standards Built In
Pre-loaded with North Carolina's CTE standards and frameworks
Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as North Carolina standards and industry needs evolve
Related Pathways in North Carolina
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