Employed by Cornell University for over 25 years, Steve began his career as a laboratory technician performing research in dairy microbiology and chemistry and worked his way into a Sr. Extension Associate position where he coordinates, develops and participates in extension based programs designed to improve milk and dairy product quality and safety. Steve obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology (1979) and a Masters degree in Food Science (1997), both from Cornell University.
One of Steve’s primary responsibilities at Cornell is with the Voluntary Shelf-Life Program (VSL) of the Milk Quality Improvement Project, an extension based program funded by NYS dairy farmers. The primary objectives of the VSL program are 1) to evaluate and document the quality and shelf-life of fluid milk and cottage cheese products manufactured in New York State and 2) to provide feedback, assistance and onsite evaluations and training to dairy processors with the goal of improving and/or maintaining product quality.
Other activities include workshops, training programs and the production of written informational materials for dairy industry personnel, including farm and plant inspectors, laboratory and plant personnel. Included in the many extension activities are Laboratory training programs that are offered each year in association with NYS Agriculture & Markets, including five regional seminars and one hands-on workshop. Steve has also been active in HACCP development and training under the NCIMS and Juice HACCP programs. Steve has a number of publications and informational bulletins focusing on dairy product quality.
Steve has been an active member of the NY State Association for Food Protection (NYSAFP) since 1987, where serves on the Lab Committee, assists with the annual conference and maintains the associations web site. He has been a member of International Association for Food Protection (IAFP) since 1988 where he represents the New York State Association, an IAFP Affiliate, on the IAFP Affiliate Council. He served as Chair of the IAFP Affiliate Council in 2004, whose duties included serving a one-year term on the IAFP Executive Board. He is also an active member of the Dairy Practices Council.