Bio: Rosemarie has over 30 years of leadership experience with ASQ, holding various chair and member leader roles. She is currently the membership chair of the FD&C Division. Her apprenticeship program in the food and biotechnology industries aims to ensure that 100 apprentices earn at least one ASQ certification and maintain ASQ membership. Currently, at least 30 apprentices and mentors are working through the ASQ Yellow Belt modules, with 8 preparing for the CQIA exam—2 of whom have already passed. Her program has also supported apprentices, including those with learning disabilities, in obtaining foundational quality certifications.
Abstract: Rosemarie Christopher will discuss the negative impact of poor employee training on food recalls in the food industry. Inadequate training can lead to mistakes in food handling and safety procedures, increasing the risk of contamination and unsafe products. She will present examples of recalls due to human error, emphasizing the health risks and financial losses that result from lack of training. The importance of comprehensive training programs and mentoring are highlighted as crucial for improving employee skills, reducing recalls, and ensuring food safety. The findings stress that a robust training system focusing on regulations and employee awareness is vital for a safer food supply chain.