Automated Pizza Arrives at Rio Hondo

by | Aug 13, 2025 | Around the Valley

Students at Rio Hondo College now have a new, hot meal option available at all hours of the day and night, thanks to PizzaForno’s growing presence across Southern California campuses. Known for its fully automated pizza ovens, PizzaForno Rio Hondo made its debut earlier this summer at the college’s police shooting academy range, with a second machine installed at the main campus on July 31.

The Canadian-based company, which operates touch-screen, refrigerated pizza dispensers that bake pies in three minutes, is expanding throughout Los Angeles County. Its debut at LA City College set the stage for additional placements across the region, including upcoming launches at Long Beach State in early August.

Meeting Students’ Late-Night Needs
PizzaForno’s automated ovens are designed to serve students around the clock—particularly during the late-night hours when campus dining halls are closed. According to Travis Musser, Master Licensee for Southern California, 70% of PizzaForno’s sales happen between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.

“Our goal is to bring college students 24/7 access to affordable and quality pizza, especially during late hours when other options on campus are closed,” Musser said. “By bringing PizzaForno machines to West Coast campuses, we’re helping schools provide a convenient solution that meets students’ busy schedules.”

Students can choose from popular varieties like Meat Lovers, Pepperoni, Cheese, Vegetarian, Barbecue, and Breakfast Pizza. To keep menus fresh and engaging, PizzaForno features a rotating Pizza of the Month, which has included creative flavors such as Kraft Mac and Cheese, Jalapeño, Hot Honey, and classic Margherita.

Supporting Students On and Off the Clock
Beyond hot food, the PizzaForno Rio Hondo initiative also creates work opportunities for students. Through the company’s student ambassador program, participants gain marketing experience while earning income from right on campus. The program is designed to fit around academic schedules and remove barriers like commuting or rigid shift requirements.

“College is expensive, and many students are looking for flexible ways to earn an income without falling behind in their studies,” Musser said. “We’re proud to bring students the opportunity to take part in a side hustle right on campus.”

Students interested in joining the ambassador program can apply at pizzaforno.com.

PizzaForno’s Growing Campus Footprint
At LA City College, the company’s machine is located in the northwest quad near the Communications building. At Rio Hondo College, the original unit at the police academy will now be complemented by the new main campus location, giving more students access to quick, oven-fresh meals without needing to leave campus.

With two machines already serving the Rio Hondo community and more on the way across Los Angeles County, PizzaForno’s expansion reflects a broader push to blend convenience, safety, and food access into student life.

As Musser puts it, “We aspire to have multiple PizzaForno machines on every college campus in Southern California.”