Student LaunchPad

Learn more about graduate careers, meet professionals working in the food sector and gain skills to improve your CV and interview techniques.

Upcoming events:

11 October 2024: Mondelēz International, Birmingham (Engineering specific)

5 November 2024: Arla UK, Leeds

20 November 2024: AFBI, Northern Ireland

27 November 2024: Teesside University, Middlesbrough

19 February 2025: Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield

20 February 2025: Tesco, Welwyn Garden City

21 February 2025: Campden BRI

 

If you'd like more information, please contact education@ifst.org

What to Expect 

A LaunchPad typically begins with presentations from those working within the food and drink industry. These are designed to provide students with advice and help provide valuable insights into possible career paths in all aspects of the food chain. Students are then able to ask questions in an open discussion that follows.

A key feature of the LaunchPad sessions is the lunch-time speed-networking sessions where students can move from table to table, each hosted by a 'mentor' from different areas of the food sector. 

Past industry mentors have included representatives from organisations such as PepsiCo, The Food Standards Agency, the Food and Drink Federation, Sainsbury's, Barfoots of Botley, Huel, MorePeople, Innocent, Waitrose and Leatherhead Food Research.

Towards the end of the session, students get an opportunity to tour the facilities of the host venue.

"I really liked hearing about everyones careers and backgrounds. It’s really interesting and useful to hear about people’s journeys."

"The tour and Q&A session was incredibly informative.  We recieved a large breadth of knowledge throughout the day."

"It was great to hear a wide range of experiences! Especially younger professionals who I found really relatable and inspiring."

Recent past events: