Free Online Certified Dietary Manager Training Offered to Maine Residents Through NMCC

Northern Maine Community College will launch the state’s only Certified Dietary Manager training program on Oct. 14, offering free enrollment to qualifying Maine residents through support from the Harold Alfond Center for the Advancement of Maine’s Workforce.

The 100% online program prepares experienced foodservice professionals to sit for the Certified Dietary Manager, Certified Food Protection Professional (CDM, CFPP) Credentialing Exam. To qualify, applicants must have at least two years of full-time non-commercial food service management or supervisory experience.

“This program directly supports Maine’s workforce needs while offering individuals a no-cost path to career advancement,” said Nicole Cote, dean of economic and workforce development at NMCC. “Graduates will be better positioned to lead food service operations across a range of settings, from healthcare to education.”

The training runs from October 2025 through May 2026 and includes three required courses. While students may choose to take fewer courses, all three are necessary to qualify for the certification exam. The curriculum is fully online and asynchronous, allowing participants to complete coursework on their own schedule. The CDM, CFPP credential is nationally recognized and accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).
Certified Dietary Managers are essential to ensuring safety, nutrition, and quality in foodservice settings, often leading teams through complex challenges such as pandemics, supply chain disruptions, and emergency response.

Enrollment is limited, and early registration is encouraged. For more information, visit www.bit.ly/CDMatNMCC.