Short Course & Symposia
For the past 40 years, the Dairy Products Technology Center (DPTC) at Cal Poly has been a trusted hub for education, innovation, and collaboration within the dairy industry. Through its extensive lineup of short courses and symposia, the DPTC has trained more than 3,500 participants, providing practical, science-based instruction to dairy professionals, producers, and enthusiasts from across California and beyond.
These programs—ranging from Artisan and Intro to Cheesemaking to Frozen Desserts Innovation and, since 2022, the Dairy Products Process and Packaging Innovation Conference—deliver hands-on learning experiences while highlighting emerging trends and technologies shaping the California dairy market. Each course connects attendees with experts, industry partners, and real-world applications, creating a dynamic learning environment centered on product quality, processing techniques, and innovation.
The DPTC’s strong collaborations with organizations such as the California Dairy Innovation Center, Pacific Coast Coalition and Dairy Management Inc. have expanded these opportunities even further, providing the industry with multiple avenues for continuous education, professional development, and knowledge exchange. Together, these partnerships ensure that the DPTC remains a driving force in advancing dairy science, supporting workforce training, and fostering innovation across the dairy sector.
Upcoming Courses
Cheesemaking for Beginners
Date: December 11, 2025
Discover the joy of making cheese right in your own kitchen! In this hands-on, half-day workshop, participants will learn the fundamentals of cheesemaking — from understanding how milk transforms into curds and whey to crafting their own fresh cheese.
You’ll make a simple, delicious cheese during class and take it home to enjoy, along with step-by-step recipes, practical tips, and guidance for recreating the process on your own. Whether you’re new to cheesemaking or just curious about how it works, this fun and approachable session will give you the confidence to start making homemade cheese with ease.
TO REGISTER PLEASE CLICK HERE
The Art of the Perfect Charcuterie Board
Date: January 8, 2026
Elevate your next gathering with a stunning and delicious charcuterie board! In this interactive half-day workshop, Isa Iturriria — Cal Poly alum and founder of Boards by Isa — will guide participants through the essentials of creating a beautifully balanced board.
Learn how to pair cheeses, meats, fruits, and accompaniments for flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Isa will share her expert tips on styling, portioning, and sourcing ingredients to impress any crowd. Participants will assemble their own personal charcuterie board to take home, along with inspiration and techniques to recreate show-stopping spreads for any occasion.
TO REGISTER PLEASE CLICK HERE
Dairy Products, Processing and Packaging Innovation Conference
Date: February 24-26, 2026
Join Us in Shell Beach, CA
Dairy industry professionals are invited to join us for three inspiring days in picturesque Shell Beach, California. This program offers in-depth learning on dairy marketplace innovation, the latest advancements in processing and packaging, and strategies for effective marketing.
Gain valuable insights from industry leaders and entrepreneurs as they share their experiences and vision for the future of dairy.
The event will be held at the beautiful Cliffs Hotel and Spa, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. With its comfortable accommodations and rejuvenating meeting spaces, the setting is designed to inspire fresh ideas and lasting connections.
TO REGISTER FOR THE CONFERENCE CLICK HERE
Dairy Products Technology Center 40th Anniversary Open House & Dinner Reception
Date: February 26, 2026
Join Us to celebrate 40 years of our achievements!
Join our celebration of four decades of advancing dairy science, innovation, and industry partnerships. Our 40th Anniversary Open House Dinner Reception will bring together alumni, industry leaders, faculty, students, and friends to honor the legacy of the center and look ahead to the future of dairy innovation.
Enjoy an evening of connection, reflection, and celebration, featuring a showcase of the Center’s milestones, stories from those who helped shape its journey, and a dinner reception highlighting the richness of California’s dairy heritage.
TO REGISTER FOR THE ANNIVERSARY DINNER CLICK HERE
Advanced Unit Operations Filtration
Date: April 7 & 8, 2026
Program & Description coming soon!
Frozen Desserts Innovation
Date: May 6 & 7, 2026
Program & Description coming soon!
Cheesemaking 101
Date: June 17 & 18, 2026
Program & Description coming soon!
Interested in upcoming courses?
Stay in the know! Sign up here to receive an email when a new course is announced!
Questions about Short courses or the conference? Email Sam Bass at slbass@calpoly.edu
Hotel Recommendations
Quality Suites San Luis Obispo (MENTION SHORT COURSE NAME WHEN MAKING RESERVATION TO RECEIVE SPECIAL RATE)