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Faculty
Michael Bentel
Instructor
Brightwater Instructor Michael Bentel is originally from Chicago and joined Brightwater in 2018 with an extensive background in food safety certification, social responsibility standards, the fresh meat industry and food systems throughout the world. He has worked in 22 countries and has devoted his life's work to the area of food and its safe and responsible production.
During his time working for Wal-Mart and Sam's Club, Michael pioneered many of the store operational systems and food safety and quality control programs throughout Wal-Mart and the industry. As the Naturipe Farms and Berry Fresh Food Safety and Social Responsibility Director, he worked with international grower partnerships to establish brand standards in food safety, product quality and responsible sourcing.
Michael also served as the Contract VP for international fresh food companies to develop their food safety and social responsibility programs around the world. As the NSF International Principal of Food Safety Management Advisor, he performed analysis for domestic and international acquisitions, improved food safety management systems, food safety instruction, and evaluated equipment and supply chain.
As an instructor at Brightwater, Michael enjoys interacting with students and giving
back to the workforce.
- BA, National Louis University
- Lead Instructor Certifications, FDA (Seafood HACCP, FSVP, PCHF and PSA)
- Certification in Quality Standards, USDA
- Food Safety
- Butchery and Charcuterie
- Food Systems