Study local, study degrees at CAFRE encourages Erin
Date published:
Erin Morrow from Caldeon, Co. Tyrone is making her mark in Northern Ireland’s food industry after graduating from the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) with a BSc (Hons) Degree in Food Business Management.
Erin’s journey began at CAFRE’s Loughry Campus, where she first completed a Level 3 qualification in Food, Nutrition and Health. Inspired by what she was learning, and the dynamic nature of the food sector, she progressed to the Ulster University validated Honours Degree course in Food Business Management, also based at Loughry Campus, Cookstown.
Now employed as a Replenishment Systems Coordinator at Henderson Wholesale, Erin plays a key role in ensuring SPAR stores across Northern Ireland remain fully stocked and operate efficiently. Her responsibilities include managing automated ordering systems, ensuring planogram compliance, and conducting daily order checks to support seamless retail operations.
“In the fast-moving consumer goods environment, no two days are the same,” Erin said. “I love the variety of tasks, products, and people you encounter working in the food sector.”
Reflecting on her time at CAFRE, Erin highlighted the value of her placement year. “The highlight of my degree course was my placement year. Completing the course with a year spent working in a paid position within the industry offers great learning and opportunities. When I graduated, I felt well prepared to tackle industry challenges and add value to a new workforce.”
She added, “My experience at Loughry was transformative. The hands-on learning, industry insights, and support from staff helped shape my career. I’d highly encourage anyone considering a future in food to apply to study at CAFRE.”
Erin’s advice to current and future students is simple but powerful: “Always keep yourself informed about what’s happening in the industry—it can really help you day to day.”
CAFRE continues to celebrate the success of its graduates and encourages young people to consider careers in the food sector. If you or someone you know thrives in a team environment, seeks a non-desk-bound career, enjoys practical problem-solving, values travel opportunities, and desires a challenging, yet rewarding career with promising job prospects, consider studying at Loughry Campus.
With a growing need for skilled and qualified professionals to drive innovation and promote sustainability CAFRE has recently updated its full-time food degree offerings. These now include a BSc (Hons) Degree in Food Innovation Management with pathways in Technology and Nutrition, and a BSc (Hons) Degree in Sustainable Agri-Food Management.
For more information, visit the CAFRE website.
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