Premier Student Opportunity: 3-A SSI Dr. Ron Schmidt Travel Award for Hygienic Design

3-A SSI is now accepting applications for the highly distinguished Dr. Ron Schmidt Student Travel Award, recognized as a premier student honor in the hygienic design and food safety sector.

This comprehensive program is designed to provide ambitious students with direct exposure to industry experts and cutting-edge developments, setting the foundation to accelerate careers.

Experience the 3-A SSI 2026 Summit on Hygienic Design

Award recipients will receive full financial support to attend and participate in the Summit, May 4–7, 2026, at the Marriott Chicago O’Hare.

The All-Inclusive Experience Covers:

• Complimentary Travel and Stay: Round-trip airfare, ground transfers, and a four-night hotel stay in Chicago.
• Full Access: Waived registration fees for the entire conference and exclusive invitations to key networking events.
• Present Your Work: An opportunity to display a research poster or technical paper in a dedicated public area outside the meeting rooms.
• Publication Platform: A chance to have your work recognized and published.
• On-Site Support: Meals are also included during the event.

Honoring a Visionary in Food Safety

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 was an international authority on food safety and sanitary equipment design, publishing extensively and training 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 is the driving force of this program."

Who Should Apply and Key Requirements

Students demonstrating a strong dedication and focus to food safety and quality are encouraged to submit an application.

Eligibility:

• Applicants 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 andinterest in hygienic design.
• A letter of recommendation from a university faculty memberor department head.

‍The application deadline is March 22.

Apply Now!