On July 12-13, West Virginia University Institute of Technology partnered with the Fayette County Health Department to bring food handlers classes and certification exams to Montgomery, West Virginia.

The two-day event was originally organized for Tech’s Upward Bound students taking a Cooking 101 class, but was expanded to serve the local community. “We were pleased to have the opportunity to bring this valuable service to the community. Food safety is important for everyone,” explained David Templeton, WVU Tech’s Director of Dining Services. Several local businesses, including McDonald’s in Smithers, West Virginia, encouraged their employees to participate.

The 2.5 hour course, taught by Fayette County Sanitarian Philip Perone, addressed the two most critical factors in food contamination: improper holding temperatures and poor personal hygiene of the food handler. Participants were then tested on their knowledge of safe food handling. All participants that passed the exam received a food handler’s certification card, which is valid for three years. Perone said, “The certification cards are a great employment credential for those working in the restaurant industry.”

The event was a requirement for the Upward Bound students in the Cooking 101 class. “I was excited about this opportunity after taking the cooking class. I really wanted to learn how to cook and knowledge of safe handling of food is something that can help me get a job in a restaurant,” explained Riverside High School junior Hannah Grose. WVU Tech covered the $10 exam fee for all students participating in the Upward Bound program.