Culinary apprentices develop essential skills such as food safety, knife techniques and efficient kitchen operations through consistent, hands-on practice in a professional kitchen. Under the guidance of experienced chefs, they learn proper sanitation standards, safe food handling, menu preparation and how to work effectively in a fast-paced team environment. This apprenticeship helps build both technical competence and professional confidence.
On-the-Job Learning:
2,000 required work hours (paid)
During this program, apprentices will develop proficiency in 18 essential skills under the guidance of an experienced mentor. These skills include workplace safety, maintaining food, beverage inventories, ordering materials and supplies and preparing bread and dough.
Related Technical Instruction:
274 required hours
You will follow the course work for the Food Preparation Technical Certificate. This includes 17 credit hours with CMU Tech. This course load can be completed in one year, over two semesters.
Certification
Graduates of the Apprenticeship Program receive a nationally recognized certificate through the Department of Labor and State Apprenticeship Agency. This certificate is recognized nationally to show demonstration of practical skills and knowledge required for the occupation.