As British Columbia's healthcare system evolves, so does the demand for trained food service professionals who understand the connection between nutrition and patient care.
Langara College's Nutrition and Food Service Management (NFSM) program offers just that: a way for experienced food professionals to translate their skills into meaningful careers in healthcare. The accredited program prepares graduates for Canadian Society of Nutrition Management (CSNM) certification, which is a legal requirement within health authorities.
We spoke with Gaya Murthy, Department Chair of Nutrition and Food Service Management, and Steven Courtney, a Red Seal chef and current student of the program, about how food service individuals can reimagine their careers at Langara.
A chef's journey to healthcare.
For French-trained Chef Steven Courtney, the decision to move from restaurants to hospitals wasn't just a career pivot, it was a calling. He envisioned the meals he made as more than a means to an end. Tired of waiting on tables and numbers, he wanted to serve food to people with a name. So, after more than 20 years in the food industry, working in casinos, resorts, and post-secondary institutions, he transitioned his career to the healthcare industry. Steven now oversees culinary training and menu development across Fraser Health Authority.
When asked why a Red Seal chef would want to become a student again, Steven shares, "I wanted to get a better grasp on the nutritional background and makeup of my dishes. If a dietitian informs me that a dish has too much potassium, too much sodium, or not enough calories, I wanted to know how to fix it without needing someone else."
To better support his new role, he enrolled in Langara's NFSM program with one goal in mind: To put a positive spin on hospital food and give back. Langara's program stood out not just for its structure, but for its mission. Designed to help food professionals like Steven transition into healthcare roles, the two-year diploma integrates nutrition science, food safety, leadership, and management skills.
