Food Innovation Academy

Royal Steensma is a partner of the Food Innovation Academy (FIA);  the place where companies from the food industry meet and inspire each other. A unique networking location, where business is done and knowledge is shared. But also an educational and practical place where young people are triggered to choose a career in the food sector. And where college and university students conduct research together for companies. The gap between food theory and practice is closed, the image improved and career prospects provided.

A breeding ground for talent
Training qualified employees, where practice and education work hand in hand, is one of FIA's spearheads. This profiles the industry as an attractive employer.

Food companies and students do research together
A second core theme is the creation of an environment where students from intermediate and higher vocational education conduct research together. Side by side with the food companies involved. Searching for solutions and innovations to issues that play a role in R&D departments.

Brand-new laboratories, kitchens and test centers
Students from Lentiz (mbo) and Inholland (hbo) enjoy learning and working in the new building. For example, in the three brand-new, state-of-the-art laboratories - microbiological, chemical and sensory. Or in the kitchens, the techno hall and the various test centers. All spaces have been furnished by FIA's business partners. The students work with the same machines and equipment used in the food industry.

At the controls themselves
By letting students in FIA's Pilot Plant and Baking Center turn the knobs themselves of all kinds of equipment and machinery used in a regular food company, they learn to know and appreciate the dynamics of the industry.

Collaborative education
Education and business together develop up-to-date food training programs. Specialists teach at school and at companies. Students do graduation assignments and internships with companies in the food industry. Focus on working learning and learning to keep practice, actuality and theory close together.