Program Overview

Choose the learning path that fits your role, experience, and career goals. You can focus on the core competency areas most relevant to your work, earn recognition as you build your knowledge, or work toward the Food Distribution Specialist (FDS) credential.

Start by completing one or more of the six core competency exams. After passing two exams, you may apply for one of ACDA’s three certified levels. If your goal is the FDS credential, you can work toward the required exams and meet the additional eligibility criteria outlined in the Food Distribution Handbook, which may include education and professional experience.

Why Participate? 

• Focus on what matters to you. Choose competency areas that fit your responsibilities and goals.

• Show what you know. Demonstrate your expertise to employers, colleagues, and partners.

• Celebrate progress along the way. Earn recognition as you advance through the certified levels.

• Learn at your own pace. Build your knowledge over time and choose the next step that works for you.

• Set a goal and work toward it. Whether you want to strengthen a specific skill or earn the FDS credential, ACDA offers a path to help you move forward.

Food Distribution Core Competencies

In the Food Distribution Education Program, there are six competency areas available to further your knowledge. This food distribution education program allows you to work at your own pace and choose the competency areas that suit your interests, job description and career goals.

Competency Areas

• USDA Foods Overview
• Procurement and Planning
• DoD Fresh
• Direct Delivery
• Processing
• Community Feeding Programs

Passing any of the competency area exams demonstrates your proficient knowledge of the topic and demonstrates your understanding of the food distribution industry.

To get started, view the learning objectives for each area at the link below. Study guides are available in the ACDA online store.

Food Distribution Certified Levels

ACDA created three Food Distribution Certified Levels for anyone wanting more than just a certificate of completion. The certified levels demonstrate to colleagues, employers and the food distribution industry that you are an expert in your area. Each of the three levels has its own requirements.

Food Distribution Professional Certified Level 1

• Complete two certification exams
• Complete the application form/fee for Food Distribution Certified Professional

Food Distribution Expert Certified Level 2

• Complete four certification exams
• Complete the application form/fee for Food Distribution Certified Expert

Food Distribution Master Certified Level 3

• Complete six certification exams
• Complete the application form/fee for Food Distribution Certified Master

The ACDA Food Distribution Certified levels are valid for two years and are renewable for additional two-year periods. Once the certification is earned, you must obtain and retain documentation for the completion of the CEs.

To start the certification process, complete the steps outlined above for core competency exams and then contact our team.

Food Distribution Specialist (FDS) Credential

The ACDA Food Distribution Specialist (FDS) Credential displays your deep and comprehensive knowledge of all six core competency areas.

This credential is a mark of excellence and reflects one’s knowledge, skills and ability to effectively manage the USDA food programs at various levels. Additionally, the FDS credential:

• Establishes a body of knowledge for professionals working in the USDA food distribution Programs.
• Assesses an individual’s level of knowledge in a reliable manner.
• Encourages professional growth and elevation of industry standards. Formally recognizes individuals who attain a high degree of knowledge in key competency areas.

You are ready for the FDS Credential Exam when you meet the criteria set forth in the charts below. Specific details and work experience qualifications are listed in the Food Distribution Handbook.

Once you have completed one of the three paths listed above, you can begin the application process to obtain your credential. Follow the steps on the FDS Credential page to complete the exam and submit your application to obtain the FDS credential.

Note: The FDS credential is valid for three years and is renewable for additional three-year periods. Once the credential has been earned, you must obtain and retain documentation for the completion of 30 CEs and three ACDA programs during the three-year credentialing period. Read more about renewal here.

LEARN MORE

ACDA Store

Interested in obtaining these credentials through ACDA’s Food Education Distribution Program? You can find the necessary applications, study guides and more in the ACDA online store.

Have Questions?

Visit our frequently asked questions page to learn more about the mission of ACDA and how you can get involved moving food resources from farm to market in the communities you serve. 

READ FAQS

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