Level 3 Master Butcher program coming to BMCC
By Terry Murry on Wednesday, May 13th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
PENDLETON – Blue Mountain Community College is now accepting applications for Level 3 of its Master Butcher Certificate Program. It’s an advanced level course of study focusing on meat entrepreneurship, facility management, and small plant operations.
The course runs from July 6 to September 25. It’s designed for individuals preparing to step into leadership roles within the meat processing industry, purchase an existing operation, or build and manage their own facilities. Applicants must have completed the first two levels of the program. They can also sign up if they hold an HACCP-equivalent certification and/or at least two years of meat shop or processing experience. The deadline to apply is June 12.
BMCC President Mark Browning is impressed with the program which was begun with a partnership with Beef Northwest Feeders. This course was developed in collaboration with Oregon State University and industry professionals.
“The industry sees the quality of the students when they come and how they’re prepared,” he said. “They want to support that because it’s better for them. They know that they’re getting someone who’s coming in ready to go.”
The 12-week program combines self-paced online coursework with live discussions. Students are also required to attend a two-day, hands-on workshop Aug. 29-30 at the Pendleton BMCC campus. Tuition is $1,000. Partial scholarships are available based on need.
More information is available at Master Butcher Certificate Program – Blue Mountain Community College.
File photo of BMCC Master Butchers students from BMCC
