Five FAQs: Baking and Pastry Management
A new culinary program being offered
We’re excited to have launched several new learning opportunities this fall at Fox Valley Technical College. We asked Trent Sorensen, associate dean of Service, to answer five of the most frequently asked questions about the new associate degree program in Baking and Pastry management.
What is the program all about?
The Baking and Pastry Management associate degree has a two-year focus. Year one is focused on ingredients, techniques, and production related to breads, tarts, cakes, confections, etc. Year two has an enhanced skill focus and infuses management concepts including cost, staffing, production management, etc. Students will also learn about supervision, catering, and sanitation.
Why did FVTC decide to add this program now?
The baking industry continues to expand within the Fox Valley and surrounding areas. The technical diploma provides needed skills for individuals to start in the profession, and the associate degree allows students to take their skills to the next level, learn additional techniques, and move into the management side of bakery and bakery-related operations.
Everybody needs to eat, and the industry has a lot of branches including bakeries, candy shops, chocolate production, grocery store bakeries, specialty cakes, etc. Industry and students want more opportunities for advanced skill development, and there are a plethora of job opportunities and paths within the baking industry.
Who should consider exploring this program?
Any individual who is interested in baking would be a great fit for this degree. If individuals enjoy baking, food production, decorating, organization, inventory and/or management within the food world, there will be a fit for them within the program.
What kinds of jobs are available with this associate degree?
There are a lot of job opportunities available including within bakeries, specialty bakeries, chocolate shops, grocery stores, restaurant bakeries, cupcake/cake shops, etc. There are also entrepreneurial opportunities for people as well with opening a bakery.
What is the earning potential for this career area?
The average Baker salary is over $40,000 per year.
The average Bakery Manager salary is over $50,000 per year.