IFT FIRST Builds Community and Fuels the Future

Each July, as we gather for IFT FIRST Annual Event and Expo, I’m reminded of the powerful, lifelong connections this event makes possible. Since its founding in 1940—then called the Food Technology Conference—our annual gathering has been a place where ideas, innovation, and people come together to advance the science of food. While our tools and challenges have evolved, the core mission of IFT FIRST remains unchanged: to convene a vibrant global community committed to feeding the future.

Whether you’re an academic, industry professional, policymaker, or student, IFT FIRST offers something rare and essential. It’s not just a conference; it’s a catalyst for innovative solutions. It’s where we exchange knowledge, build networks, and rediscover why we do what we do.

As I shared in last month’s message, I first attended IFT’s annual meeting as a graduate student in the early 1990s, presenting my research in front of legends in food engineering who took the time to ask thoughtful questions and offer guidance. That experience was transformative. Since then, I’ve remained closely involved in IFT and FIRST, particularly through my work with students, which I find to be among the most inspiring aspects of the event.

Some of my fondest memories are from coaching the North Carolina State College Bowl team, who went on to win the competition in back-to-back years. That spirit of collaboration, mentorship, and fun is what IFT FIRST is all about. It’s often a student’s first glimpse into the broader food system community and, for many, the beginning of a lifelong relationship with IFT.

Just ask Viral Shukla, current IFT Student Association (IFTSA) president, recent PhD graduate, and researcher at Cornell University. His first IFT experience came through competing in the College Bowl. “It was really exciting to meet other students and see that we all love food,” he recalled. “FIRST is where you build your community outside the classroom and meet the future leaders of the science of food.”

In times of disruption, IFT FIRST offers us a harbor—a safe space to support one another, exchange ideas, and reimagine the future together.

Christopher R. Daubert

President, IFT

Viral has since gone on to help grow student membership around the world, strengthening IFTSA chapters across the United States and internationally. This month at IFT FIRST, he’ll present on “Upcycling Food Byproducts Through Novel Technologies to Feed the Future,” alongside Cornell Postdoctoral Associate Mark Emile Punzalan. It’s a powerful full-circle moment and a reminder of the vital role IFT FIRST plays in shaping future leaders.

Another shining example is Chamali Kodikara, IFTSA president-elect and PhD student at the University of Manitoba. Though she only joined IFTSA in 2022, she’s already left a mark by launching a new chapter at her university and now serving as the IFTSA vice president of competitions.

The first time Chamali attended IFT FIRST, she served as competition chair for the Graduate Research Video Competition. “FIRST was the biggest event I’ve ever experienced in the food industry,” she shared. “I felt a sense of belonging within IFT at FIRST.”

As Chamali steps into her leader-ship role as IFTSA president-elect, I’m excited to see how she’ll continue to strengthen the program and inspire her peers.

Stories like Viral’s and Chamali’s remind us why IFT FIRST matters—especially now. Even in its earliest days, our founders recognized the value of bringing people together to share ideas, engage in difficult conversations, and push the boundaries of what’s possible.

To Learn More About IFT FIRST please visit first.iftevent.org/event

Today, amid tremendous challenges and a rapidly shifting food landscape, that mission is more important than ever. The world is moving fast—and so is our science. And in times of disruption, IFT FIRST offers us a harbor—a safe space to support one another, exchange ideas, and reimagine the future together.

At IFT FIRST this month, I hope you’ll take full advantage of everything it has to offer—from engaging sessions on emerging science and regulation to groundbreaking competitions and interactive experiences. Whether you’re reconnecting with old friends or making new ones, remember: These are the moments that define careers, fuel collaboration, and inspire action.

We are stronger when we’re together. Let’s continue shaping the future of food—side by side.ft