Training is typically offered in the fall, with classes beginning early in the year, but it is not guaranteed every year. You can join our email list for updates once the application opens.
The UC Master Food Preserver Program of San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties is a volunteer-driven program that shares research-based food safety and preservation information with the public.
Volunteers learn, teach, and work alongside others in a hands-on, collaborative environment. In addition to serving the community, many volunteers find the experience engaging and rewarding.
Steps To Apply
- Attend/watch the online information session to learn about the volunteer requirements as well as the selection and training process. Two live Q&A sessions are available to address any additional questions you have about the training program.
- Required Training Information Session:
- Thursday, September 10, 2026: 6:30–7:30 pm (Zoom link coming soon)
- Optional Q&A Sessions(please attend/watch the recorded training information session before attending):
- Thursday, October 8, 2026: 6:30–7:30 pm (Zoom link coming soon)
- Friday, October 23, 2026: 2:00–3:00 pm (Zoom link coming soon)
- Required Training Information Session:
- Submit your application by the end of Sunday, November 8, 2026. Application coming soon.
- Monitor your inbox for updates from your program coordinator. If you are selected to interview, your coordinator will schedule the day and time that work best for you in November and early December.
- Pay the $350 training fee and submit all necessary information to your coordinator.
What Volunteers Do
- Lead workshops, classes, and demonstrations
- Support outreach events such as fairs and farmers’ markets
- Create and share educational materials and resources
Training Program
Applicants complete an application and interview process before enrolling. Training includes more than 50 hours of instruction over approximately 12 weeks, combining online coursework with hands-on labs based on current research and public health guidance.
Training topics include:
- Food safety and knife skills
- Cold storage and food handling
- High-acid preservation (boiling water and atmospheric steam canning)
- Pickling and fermentation
- Low-acid preservation (pressure canning)
- Dehydration
- Teaching and community outreach
Training Format
This is a hybrid learning program consisting of:
- Virtual learning: Pre-recorded videos, reading assignments, online quizzes, live online classes, and case studies completed with a mentor. Students use Google Classroom to track assignments and access class links.
- Hands-on learning: In-person labs conducted locally at participating program offices
Applicant Requirements
- Applicants must be available to attend the live online classes listed in the class schedule below. Each local program will post its local in-person lab dates.
- The live online classes are offered twice per topic. Applicants will sign up for either the Thursday evening track (6:30-8:30 pm) or the Friday afternoon track (2:00-4:00 pm).
- Applicants must be comfortable navigating the web, utilizing the features of Zoom, and accessing assignments on Google Classroom; class communication is via email.
- Accepted applicants must be fingerprinted for DOJ clearance in California.
Volunteer Commitment
After completing the training, certified UC Master Food Preservers volunteer a minimum of 50 hours in the first year, and at least 25 hours plus 12 hours of continuing education in each subsequent year.