
New Butcher Certificate Program Coming To NE Oregon
Last week, Oregon’s Blue Mountain Community College announced the launch of its new Master Butcher Certificate Program. School officials say it's designed for individuals looking to start or enhance their careers in the meat processing industry. The program, developed in collaboration with industry experts and the Northwest Meat Processors Association, will provide participants with hands-on training and essential knowledge for success in this rewarding field.
BMCC said the Master Butcher Certificate Program offers comprehensive instruction in humane animal slaughter, carcass dressing, muscle identification, and the quality butchery of key livestock species.
The Master Butcher Certificate Program consists of three levels. The first level begins in March and spans 12 weeks. The program will be offered in a hybrid format to help accommodate those living outside of Pendleton, or those working. School officials said levels 2 & 3 will be offered in the 2025-2026 school year.
Program Details:
- Level 1: Basic Butchery
- Duration: 12 weeks, March 10 – June 2, 2025
- Online component includes:
- Range Meat Academy Meat Clerk program (15-20 hours)
- Range Meat Academy Meat Cutter program (40-60 hours)
- Food Handlers License (based on state)
- In-person workshops (4 weekends):
- Humane Animal Handling & Slaughter – March 22-23
- Beef Butchery – April 12-13
- Pork Butchery – May 3-4
- Lamb/Goat Butchery – May 24-25\
- Must attend 3 of the 4 weekend workshops to earn the Level 1 Certificate.
BMCC said program is limited to just 15 students, with 2 spots reserved specifically for members of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. A limited number of scholarships, ranging from $500 to $1,000, are available to all applicants. To apply for a scholarship, simply answer the scholarship questions on the registration form. The total registration fee is $1,500. Please consider travel costs to Pendleton, OR, for the in-person workshops when planning.
Applications are now open, with a deadline of February 10th, and invitations to participate will be sent out by February 24th. All payments must be received by March 7, 2025, in order to enroll.
Visit BMCC's Website to learn more or to apply.
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