For those who have passed through the gates of CAFRE’S Loughry campus over the past 50 years, one face that has remained a constant is that of Pat McTeague.
Pat has been working at Loughry, now part of the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) since 1974. This year, 2024, has been special for him, celebrating 50 years of continuous employment within the civil service.
Pat started work as a laboratory assistant carrying out analysis on food products and providing science support in the delivery of education programmes.
Over the years he has witnessed many transformations, even those of name changes of the campus. Once Loughry College of Agriculture and Food Technology to Loughry College – The Food Centre and now to CAFRE, Loughry Campus.
Working at the Loughry campus
Moving from the laboratories Pat transitioned into work as a food technologist with the creation of extended food technology services.
With an interest in bakery products, Pat is well known among food businesses in Northern Ireland.
With the creation of the modern Food Technology Centre in 1998, Pat further developed the fruit, vegetable and brewing processing capabilities at Loughry.
Instrumental in the purchase of innovative equipment, Pat and his food technology technician colleagues demonstrate processing and adapt techniques in line with industry developments.
His vast food processing expertise has greatly benefitted both CAFRE staff and students, and countless local food businesses, according to the college.
Although now in partial retirement, it’s understood that his passion for helping students past and present plays a significant part in making the campus feel like a community.
He is dedicated to ensuring that students enjoy their time at college. CAFRE has stated that he helps build their confidence, experience and their practical ability to equip them for careers in the food industry.
Equally dedicated to his industry work, whether brewing or baking, developing learner competence is Pat’s true vocation.
He has always advocated that practical-based learning is the key to making students ‘industry ready’.
Many managers in the Northern Ireland food sector today have been mentored by Pat McTeague. In recognition of his dedication to Loughry students, Pat was awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) in 2023.
CAFRE staff and students, past and present have wished Pat good health and the determination to enable him to continue, doing what he does best, sharing his passion for food processing with others.
