Maricel Krügel

I’m passionate about working with and educating people, both in person and online. With a strong focus on relationship-building and results, my career has spanned continents, universities, and organizations in areas like food safety, processing, product development, and online teaching.

I thrive on innovation, problem-solving, and supporting diverse talent. I’ve guided many young professionals and led collaborative research and teaching projects that delivered real-world impact.

I’m now looking to focus my career as a Learning and Development Specialist—leveraging my experience to design meaningful learning experiences, foster personal and professional growth, and help individuals unlock their full potential.

I am a seasoned educator and food science professional with over 16 years of experience across academic institutions in South Africa, Canada, and Europe. My career spans lecturing, curriculum development, online and blended learning design, and student mentorship. I’ve led new product development initiatives, managed interdisciplinary teams, and coordinated large-scale showcase events in collaboration with industry stakeholders.

I’ve taught and developed modules in food safety, product development, and online education, combining innovative teaching methodologies with strategic course planning. I’ve also secured significant research funding, conducted applied research, and coached individuals and teams using Gallup’s CliftonStrengths framework.

Currently, I serve in roles that support both student learning and online program development, while pursuing my passion for helping others grow through coaching, facilitation, and educational innovation.

I have a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Food Science from Stellenbosch University, where I focused on advanced molecular evaluation techniques in microbial research. Complementing my scientific background, I have been awarded a Scholarship in Educational Leadership, through which I have developed and delivered blended learning courses that effectively combine traditional and digital teaching methods. Additionally, I have completed courses in Artificial Intelligence and Digital Marketing, which have enhanced my ability to integrate emerging technologies and strategic communication into educational and professional settings. As a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach, I apply strengths-based principles to foster growth and collaboration. Together, these experiences empower me to drive innovation and leadership in both education and research environments.