2027 UC Master Food Preserver Training Program

Training Format

This is a hybrid learning program consisting of:

• Virtual learning: Pre-recorded videos, reading assignments, quizzes, live 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.
• View the 2027 Syllabus (coming soon) for details about the training program.

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.

How to Apply

1. Attend/watch the required information session to learn about expectations during the training process. Attend one or both of the optional Q&A sessions to address unanswered questions.
   • Required Training Information Session: 
     • Thursday, September 10, 2026: 6:30–7:30 pm Register here
   • Optional Q&A Sessions(please attend/watch the recorded training information session before attending):
     • Thursday, October 8, 2026:  6:30–7:30 pm 
     • Friday, October 23, 2026: 2:00–3:00 pm 
2. Submit your application by the end of Sunday, November 8, 2026. To prevent data loss, please complete the application in one session or prepare your answers in a separate document before pasting and submitting. (Application coming soon) 

Next Steps

1. Selected applicants will be contacted for an in-person interview and short demo presentation in November or early December.
2. If accepted, submit your training fee to your county's survey by December 2026. We'll need time to order and ship training materials before the start of training in January. 
3. Complete the Live Scan fingerprinting process.
4. Training begins! Attend online classes and in-person labs from January through June.
5. Once training is complete, you will be expected to complete 50 volunteer hours in your first year as a UC Master Food Preserver. Every year thereafter, you will be expected to complete 25 volunteer hours plus 12 continuing education hours.