Building Bridges: Networking Strategies for Students and Professionals in Food Safety
Oct 14, 2026 (12:00 p.m. EST)
Webinar Description
Whether you’re a student meeting industry leaders for the first time or a seasoned professional preparing for a career change, networking can be intimidating. This interactive Webinar equips attendees with practical strategies to connect effectively and build meaningful professional relationships at conferences, online, and in interviews while avoiding common pitfalls in communication and etiquette.
Through short skits and scenario-based exercises, participants will experience both good and bad networking practices. Students will learn how to introduce themselves confidently, provide context in outreach, and request mentorship or recommendations appropriately. Seasoned professionals will explore how to refresh their professional presence, engage on LinkedIn, and navigate interviews for new roles or career transitions.
The session emphasizes practical tips for building lasting professional relationships and leveraging industry networks. We’ll also cover broader professional development topics: the importance of gaining foundational experience, understanding workplace expectations, and pacing career growth through intentional steps. Attendees will leave with actionable takeaways they can apply immediately, whether connecting at a student luncheon, engaging in online discussions, or interviewing for a new role.
By providing a space for open dialogue, this webinar aims to bridge the gap between emerging and established professionals in food safety, equipping all participants with the tools to network confidently, respectfully, and effectively throughout their careers.
Professional Development Groups
- Developing Food Safety Professionals Professional Development Group
Presenters
- Amanda Martin Jones, Speaker Technical Applications Senior Specialist, AFB International
- Amy Parks, Speaker Director, Global FSQA Governance & Regulatory Compliance, Dole
- Rachel McEgan, Speaker Food Safety Scientist, McEgan Food Safety LLC
- Kantha Shelke, Speaker Principal, Corvus Blue, and Senior Lecturer, Johns Hopkins
- Angela Anandappa, Moderator CEO and President, Alliance for Advanced Sanitation

