For Those New to the Food Industry or in a New Role.
CSIFT pairs early-career professionals with experienced mentors for a three-month journey of growth and learning. Through biweekly meetings, participants gain insights on leadership, communication, and industry navigation—while building lasting connections within the industry.
You can register to participate as either a mentor or as a mentee.
The 2026 Mentor Programs are currently in place.
Looking for the CFSF Scholarship Mentor program?Programs run from September through November annually where mentor/mentee pairs meet 6 times over 3 months. Program guides are included to help structure the conversations.
Mentees
If you’re new to the food industry or stepping into a fresh role, this program is your gateway to personalized support. Gain valuable guidance from seasoned mentors who understand your challenges and are dedicated to helping you succeed. It’s more than mentorship—it’s a partnership focused on unlocking your potential and achieving your career aspirations with confidence.
Mentors
Seeking experienced professionals in the food and beverage industry who can share their journey. Designed exclusively for members of Chicago Section IFT. This program isn’t just about career development—it’s about building a community where food industry professionals of all experience levels can thrive together.
“I joined this mentorship program to help up and coming professionals navigate through the corporate space within food safety. After the experience, I think it was mutually beneficial. We both had different backgrounds and it was a very enjoyable experience.“
Kanisha Kent
Mentor
Mérieux NutriSciences
Technical Account Manager