Leading the Whey: A Year of Innovations at Dairy Products Technology Center

The Dairy Products Technology Center (DPTC) at Cal Poly has had an exciting year, filled with hands-on learning, groundbreaking research and connections that continue to strengthen our Cal Poly community. From short courses and conferences to student engagement and international collaborations, the DPTC has been at the forefront of shaping the future of dairy innovation.

Learn by Doing short courses brought together students, professionals, entrepreneurs and enthusiasts to dive into the science of dairy products. Participants learned to take a product from concept to consumer, experimented with cheese making traditions and explored the fast-growing frozen desserts market. Whether creating new cheese styles or analyzing consumer trends, attendees left with the skills and confidence to make their mark in the industry.  

Inspiring the Next Generation 

The DPTC is more than a research center; it's a place where learning, mentorship and community come together. In keeping with that ethos, the center included outreach as a big part of its year’s activities. It hosted 120 curious third graders from Cesar Chavez Elementary school in Greenfield, California, for a fun introduction to dairy science. They learned about milking cows and making their own butter. 

The DPTC also collaborated with 10 Cal Poly classes across multiple majors to talk about basic dairy manufacturing principles and welcomed alumni back to campus to share their expertise with the young students. Student Success 

Training the next generation of leaders is one of the core missions of the DPTC. All this work and training is opening doors for students at Cal Poly and abroad to participate in internships, pursue graduate degrees and explore careers. Recent DPTC activities have supported two biology students, eight from ag business and one international student from the Reunion Island University. These 11 students worked on multiple projects, such as supporting research and development projects, documenting the center’s activities, managing social media and supporting short courses.  

“This internship at Cal Poly changed everything,” said international intern Rolande Azonkponon. “I discovered a true passion: cheese. Understanding its textures, its flavors, its process; it was a revelation.” 

The DPTC also collaborated with Universite Laval in Quebec, Canada and Universidad Panamericana in Aguascalientes, Mexico, on a student exchange program called From Cows to Neurons 2.0. During the program, funded by the 100K Strong Americas Foundation, students learned lessons from experts about sustainable practices in the cheese industry, exchanged cultural practices and traveled to Quebec City to tour small- and medium- sized creameries and university facilities   

 

Building Bridges with Industry 

This year’s Dairy Products Processing and Packaging Innovation Conference, hosted in February in Shell Beach, California, welcomed more than 140 participants and 40 expert speakers – the largest turnout yet. The event sparked lively discussions on sustainability, AI tools, new technologies and fresh product ideas, proving once again that Cal Poly is a hub for dairy innovation. 

 

 

Research that Matters 

From lactose-free cheeses and reduced-sugar frozen desserts to value-added milk beverages, the DPTC’s research team has been working on exciting innovations and collaborations. One standout collaboration with Cal Poly’s Experience Industry Management and Graphic Communication departments helped the center reimagine the DPTC and the Creamery tour experience, blending science with creativity. 

 

Looking Ahead 

The center and its staff and faculty are proud of these accomplishments and grateful for the collaboration of our students, alumni, industry partners and staff. Together, we’re building momentum for the future of dairy innovation, education and outreach. 

 

Save the Date – Upcoming Events

•    Dairy Products, Processing and Packaging Innovation Conference – Feb. 24–26, 2026. Featuring cutting-edge insights across the dairy industry. 
•    DPTC 40th Anniversary Celebration – Evening of Feb. 26, 2026 

Stay tuned for registration details and more opportunities to engage with the DPTC community. 
 

Read more stories in the Fall 2025 Newsletter