Ridgewater Meat Cutting Named MN Outstanding Post-Secondary Ag Program
November 12, 2024
WILLMAR and HUTCHINSON, MN – After being available for just two years, Ridgewater’s Meat Cutting program has been named the 2024 Minnesota Outstanding Post-Secondary Agriculture Program by the Minnesota Association of Agriculture Educators (MAAE). Instructor Sophia (Thommes) Berg of Bird Island was honored at the MAAE conference in Plymouth.
MAAE award criteria includes curriculum, experiential learning and marketing to leadership development, partnerships, and professional growth.
During the past two years, Berg has worked with industry partners to lead the development of the new Ridgewater program, which includes both Beginning Meat Cutting and Advanced Meat Processing certificates. The unique delivery model blends online instruction with an apprenticeship, experiential learning model that partners students with industry-partner butcher shops in their local communities. Part-time and full-time students take single courses or pursue full certificates.
“Sophia has been instrumental in developing a curriculum that not only educates but also inspires our students to pursue careers in meat cutting and processing,” explained Ridgewater College’s Mike Kutzke, vice president of student success. “Her leadership and vision have been key to the program’s success. Her ability to build strong industry relationships has been crucial in the development and success of the Meat Cutting program.”
“The nomination for the award was huge in itself,” said Berg. “When I was granted the award, it gave me such a sense of accomplishment.”
Berg holds a bachelor’s degree in Animal Science (Livestock Management Emphasis) from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls and a master of science degree in Agriculture Education from South Dakota State University. She is a member of the state and national associations for agriculture educators and for meat processors. According to Berg, attending and conducting workshops helps her develop industry and educational relationships to make contacts that help her and her students.
“This award reflects the collaborative efforts of our faculty, students, and industry partners,” Kutzke added. “Together, we are shaping the future of agricultural education and ensuring that our graduates are well-prepared for their careers.”
For more information about Ridgewater’s Meat Cutting program, go to www.ridgewater.edu/meatcutting.