It’s been a busy year already for our Culinary Job Training team! Read some of our recent highlights below.

On Feb. 27, Chef Jon Askelson began as our new Culinary Job Training Instructor. Jon has several years of experience in the culinary industry, particularly with catering. Jon also has experience with a program very similar to ours. He is a graduate from the College for Technical Education in Lexington, KY, so he truly understands the goals of our program, and has a strong passion for our mission.

Chef Jon works with Chef Kyle Burnett, our Culinary Job Training Manager, to teach our students and prepare themfor careers in the culinary industry.

On March 15, students and graduates volunteered at our Corks & Forks event, working alongside local chefs and restaurants to prepare dishes for 700+ guests at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

This event also featured a video about Tiara Shelton, graduate of Class 150, who is now living her dream as a Bread Maker & Pastry Chef at Circle City Sweets. Hear her inspirational story below:

On March 17, Culinary Job Training Class 153 celebrated their graduation from the program! The whole building enjoyed celebrating Marian, Austin, Ahmae, Nate, Jimmy, and Ricky, and our keynote speaker was Marie Mackintosh, President and CEO of EmployIndy.

You can watch the full ceremony below, which featured moving remarks from our newest graduates, awards, and celebration from our staff and board. Grab the tissues at minute 24:30 when our newest graduates reflect on the program.

March 27 was the first day for Class 154 with 8 students. We’re excited to get to know them and begin working with them. Class 154 will graduate on Friday, May 12, at 9:30 AM.

You can help us spread the word about this life-changing program!

Find upcoming information sessions here, and share information about this program with prospective students, potential employers, and anyone else you think should know about this impactful program. Thank you!