It is with great honour and pride that I accept this year’s Canadian Professional Meat Cutter’s Association (CPMCA) Award for being a top-ranking student of the Retail Meat Processing program at Thompson Rivers University. Thank you to the Association for the generous scholarship award and a special thanks to Corey Davison from Thompson Rivers University for his dedication, his professionalism and his mentorship. As a 22-year veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces I can, without a doubt, affirm that the high level of training provided in the TRU Retail Meat Processing program is the direct result of Corey Davison’s instruction, expertise and experience.
The skills taught during the 9-month Retail Meat Processing program at TRU have given me the knowledge required to succeed as a meatcutter in all aspects of the profession, including how to successfully run a meatcutting business. There was also specialized training in the accuracy of cutting, knife handling, portioning while maximizing yield and merchandising.
As a father, a farmer and a new member of the Blind Bay Village Grocer meat department, I am passionate about and committed to providing sustainable and locally grown food for my family and community. I am enjoying my work as a meatcutter and I look forward to using this scholarship money to expand my knowledge and experience to better serve my customers, family and friends.
Benoit Laroche, Sorrento BC