Training the future of the hospitality industry

ProStart® is a career-building program for high school students interested in culinary arts and restaurant and foodservice management. Over a two-year period, students study in the classroom, participate in mentored work experiences, and test their skills in local and national competitions. ProStart curriculum blends together culinary and management skills, helping students grow into the leaders our industry needs.

With local and national support (see Honor Roll of Donors) from industry members, educators, state associations and the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF), ProStart reaches more than 90,000 students in 1,700 high schools across 47 states - fostering prosperity in the restaurant industry by developing the next generation of industry leaders. Learn how ProStart provides students a platform to discover new interests and talents and open doors for fulfilling careers (see video).

Every spring students put their skills to the ultimate test at the Oregon ProStart High School Culinary Championships, vying for a spot at the National ProStart® Invitational and a chance to compete for thousands of dollars in scholarships. On February 16, 2013, the team from Seaside High School took first place in the statewide event. See the results and read the press release.