TOLEDO, Ohio — The Center for Innovative Food Technology (CIFT) is thrilled to announce the addition of two new key team members: Kayla Richards as Business Development Specialist and Jason Shininger as Manager – Food Operations. Both Kayla and Jason bring experience and proven expertise to CIFT, further strengthening the organization’s commitment to supporting Ohio’s manufacturers and food processors as they scale, compete, and thrive in an era of rapid technological advancement. As Ohio gets ready to celebrate Manufacturing Month, this exciting news adds to the momentum of innovation and growth within the state’s manufacturing and food processing sectors.
As Ohio’s food processing and manufacturing industries continue to grow and evolve, CIFT is committed to providing practical, innovative solutions tailored to these sectors. Kayla and Jason will enhance CIFT’s ability to serve its partners with specialized expertise, fostering new growth opportunities across the region.
Introducing Kayla Richards – Business Development Specialist
Kayla Richards joins CIFT with a diverse background in agricultural leadership and business development, having most recently served as District Director for the Ohio Farm Bureau. In her new role, Kayla will leverage her extensive experience to work directly with clients—both existing and new—helping them identify challenges and opportunities in the ever-changing landscape of food processing and manufacturing. Her focus will be on providing innovative solutions, technical assistance, and business acceleration services that directly impact the ability of Ohio companies to scale and compete.
“We are incredibly excited to have Kayla on board,” said Troy Wildermuth, Vice President, Director of Manufacturing and Programs at CIFT. “Her expertise in developing relationships and driving business growth aligns perfectly with CIFT’s mission to support and elevate Ohio’s food processors and manufacturers. Kayla’s skills and experience will bring tremendous value to the companies we serve.”
Kayla resides in Wood County with her husband Levi and their six children, where they also raise livestock. She holds a degree from Bowling Green State University and continues to contribute to the community as an advisor for a local 4-H club.
Introducing Jason Shininger – Manager – Food Operations
Jason Shininger brings over 20 years of operational excellence and leadership to CIFT, having served in various capacities at Conagra Brands, where he specialized in driving operational improvements and managing plant expansions. As CIFT’s new Manager – Food Operations, Jason will play a key role in optimizing production processes for Ohio’s food processors and manufacturers, with a focus on improving Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), integrating cutting-edge processing systems, and fostering a culture of problem-solving and efficiency.
“We are excited to welcome Jason to the CIFT team,” said Rebecca Singer, President and CEO of CIFT. “Jason’s expertise in operations and his ability to lead complex projects that enhance efficiency and productivity will be instrumental in supporting the growth and innovation of Ohio’s food manufacturing industry. His deep experience with Total Productive Maintenance and Autonomous Maintenance strategies will bring fresh perspectives and solutions to our partners.”
Jason resides in Bryan, Ohio, with his wife Kari and their three daughters. He is an alumnus of The Ohio State University, holding a degree in Industrial Systems Engineering, and in his spare time enjoys working on his family farm and building custom performance motorcycles.
About CIFT
CIFT is a nonprofit solutions provider dedicated to helping manufacturers and food processors across Ohio scale and compete through innovative solutions. Based in Northwest Ohio, CIFT partners with companies to drive growth, enhance competitiveness, and implement cutting-edge technologies that allow businesses to thrive. As a partner of both the Ohio MEP (Manufacturing Extension Partnership) and the National MEP, CIFT is able to offer a broad range of services, from Lean manufacturing strategies to food safety, smart manufacturing, and workforce development as well as access to deep recourses.
With a focus on delivering practical, outcome-driven solutions, CIFT supports businesses in overcoming challenges and seizing new opportunities in a rapidly evolving marketplace. Whether optimizing processes, supporting product development, or fostering innovation, CIFT is committed to driving success for Ohio’s food processors and manufacturers.
For more information about CIFT and the services offered, please contact:
Todd Underwood
Strategic Marketing Manager
[email protected]
(419) 261-0059
— Center for Innovative Food Technology
