Premier Student Opportunity: Accelerate Your Career with the Dr. Ron Schmidt Student Travel Award

The application process is open for the highly distinguished 3-A SSI Dr. Ron Schmidt Student Travel Award.

Recognized as a premier student honor in the hygienic design and food safety sector, this comprehensive program gives ambitious students direct, hands-on exposure to industry experts and cutting-edge developments.

3-A SSI will honor travel award winners at the 3-A SSI Summit on Hygienic Design, May 4 to 7, 2026, at the Marriott Chicago O’Hare.

The all-inclusive award covers:

• Complimentary Travel and Stay: We cover round-trip airfare, ground transfers, and a four-night hotel stay in Chicago.
• Full Access to Network with Industry Leaders: 3-A SSI waives your registration fees for the entire conference, plus you receive exclusive invitations to key networking events where industry decisions are made.
• Present Your Work on a Global Stage: Seize the opportunity to display a research poster or technical paper in a dedicated public area outside the meeting rooms.
• Publication Platform: Earn the chance to have your work recognized and published, boosting your professional profile immediately.
• On-Site Support: Meals are also included throughout the event.

Honoring a Visionary: The Legacy of Dr. Ron Schmidt

The award serves as a tribute to the late Dr. Ronald H.Schmidt, a Professor Emeritus at the University of Florida and a co-founder of 3-A SSI. Throughout his nearly 40-year career, Dr. Schmidt defined standards for food safety and sanitary equipment design; he published extensively and trained generations of professionals.

"This highly competitive award keeps Dr. Schmidt’s commitment to inspiring the next generation of industry professionals alive," says Meri Beth Wojtaszek, 3-A SSI Executive Director. "His firm belief in developing a robust talent pool for food safety leadership drives this program. We are looking for the best and brightest—apply today."

Who Should Apply and Key Requirements

Applicants should demonstrate a strong dedication and focus on food safety and quality. Show us your drive.

Eligibility:

• Must be currently enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate program in the United States or Canada.
• Eligible fields include food technology, food science, dairy science, or other closely related disciplines.

Required Submission Materials:

• A detailed personal essay outlining your career goals and interest in hygienic design.
• A letter of recommendation from a university faculty member or department head.

‍The application deadline is February 15, 2026.

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Apply now!

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