BMCC launches Master Butcher Certificate Program
By Terry Murry on Thursday, January 9th, 2025 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
PENDLETON – (News release from BMCC) Blue Mountain Community College (BMCC) is excited to announce the launch of its new Master Butcher Certificate Program, designed for individuals looking to start or enhance their careers in the meat processing industry. The program, developed in collaboration with industry experts and the Northwest Meat Processors Association, will provide participants with hands-on training and essential knowledge for success in this rewarding field.
Whether you’re looking to begin a career in butchery, expand your skills, or start your own meat processing business, the Master Butcher Certificate Program offers comprehensive instruction in humane animal slaughter, carcass dressing, muscle identification, and the quality butchery of key livestock species.
Program Overview
The Master Butcher Certificate Program consists of three levels, starting with Level 1: Basic Butchery. The first level begins in March 2025 and spans 12 weeks. To accommodate working professionals and those living outside of Pendleton, BMCC will offer the program in a hybrid format, with online courses that can be completed from home, alongside four required in-person workshops held on weekends at the BMCC campus.
Levels 2 and 3, focusing on Food Safety & Quality and Meat Entrepreneurship & Management, respectively, will be offered in the 2025-2026 school year.
Program Details
- Level 1: Basic Butchery
- Duration: 12 weeks, March 10 – June 2, 2025
- Online component includes:
- Range Meat Academy Meat Clerk program (15-20 hours)
- Range Meat Academy Meat Cutter program (40-60 hours)
- Food Handlers License (based on state)
- In-person workshops (4 weekends):
- Humane Animal Handling & Slaughter – March 22-23
- Beef Butchery – April 12-13
- Pork Butchery – May 3-4
- Lamb/Goat Butchery – May 24-25
- Must attend 3 of the 4 weekend workshops to earn the Level 1 Certificate.
- Basic Eligibility
- Must be 18 years old by the program start date
- Must have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent
- Must be employed in or have a strong desire to work in the meat industry
- Experience with livestock is required
- Limited Enrollment
- The program is limited to just 15 students, with 2 spots reserved specifically for members of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR). Don’t delay – apply soon to secure your spot!
Partners
This program is a collaborative effort between Blue Mountain Community College, Oregon State University, and the Northwest Meat Processors Association.
Scholarships Available
A limited number of scholarships, ranging from $500 to $1,000, are available to all applicants. To apply for a scholarship, simply answer the scholarship questions on the registration form.
Program Fee
The total registration fee is $1,500. Please consider travel costs to Pendleton, OR, for the in-person workshops when planning.
Application Details
Applications are now open, with a deadline of February 10, 2025. Applications will be reviewed during the week of February 17, 2025, and invitations to participate will be sent out by February 24, 2025. All payments must be received by March 7, 2025, in order to enroll.
For more information and to apply, visit https://bluecc.edu/master-butcher/
BMCC file photo of a past meat processing class
