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Pennsylvania College of Technology faculty and students recently lent their knowledge as presenters and assistants at the Retail Confectioners Association of Philadelphia's fall event. In addition, a Penn College instructor was presented the association's 2023 "Candy Hook Award," and the association announced its intent to establish an annual scholarship for the college's students.
The Philadelphia National Candy, Gift & Gourmet Show, hosted by the Retail Confectioners Association of Philadelphia since 1949, featured seminars by Penn College's Chef Todd M. Keeley, assistant professor of baking and pastry arts and culinary arts, and Chef Charles R. Niedermyer, instructor of baking and pastry arts and culinary arts.
Niedermyer received the association's "Candy Hook Award" for his hard work and dedication to the association and its members.
The chef-instructor is not only a frequent presenter at RCAP's two annual shows, but he also advances the confectionary field as a presenter and author for Retail Confectioners International and as an active member of the Bread Bakers Guild of America.
A Penn College graduate with degrees in baking & pastry arts and technology management, he was named a top
educator in Bake magazine's "Twentyfive" issue and was one of Dessert Professional Magazine's Top 10 Pastry Chefs in America.
Niedermyer regularly presents at industry shows and assists with educational conferences across the country, involving Penn College students in the experience.
A contingent of Penn College baking & pastry arts students was again part of the experience at the Philadelphia National Candy, Gift & Gourmet Show, assisting with seminars and show logistics.
"Attending the show allowed me to see every aspect of candy development and was a great opportunity for me to expand my network, education and possible job opportunities," said Chloe M. Harris, a baking & pastry arts student from Harrisburg. Harris was joined by baking & pastry arts classmates Sofie E. Howard, of South Williamsport, and Autumn B. Stanley, of Lincoln University.
The Philadelphia National Candy, Gift & Gourmet Show gives candy shops the opportunity to network with some of the most successful folks in the industry with the latest offerings in every category -- from candy, chocolate and gourmet specialties to candymaking equipment and packaging. In addition to covering the latest trends, the show includes a lineup of seminars led by top confectionary professionals.