5 Respected Resources For Aspiring Chefs

Becoming a professional chef requires years of training and experience, and because of this, home cooks and amateurs may have a hard time figuring out how to take their passion for cooking to the next level. Luckily, countless industry experts around the world are willing to share their knowledge with aspiring chefs. In no particular order, here are some helpful resources for those who wish to break into the culinary world.

First up, at #1, we have the Stratford Chefs School. It is a not-for-profit career college focused on the innovative, hands-on training of aspiring chefs and culinary entrepreneurs. Its 16-week Diploma program teaches students the basic skills and techniques from both French and Italian classic culinary traditions. Hands-on cooking classes run five days a week and are complemented by theoretical course components.

Those enrolled in the longer 32-week Professional Culinary Diploma program can also enroll in an optional preparatory course if they wish to learn some key kitchen skills and build confidence before classes begin; the course covers basic techniques in cooking, pastry, sanitation, and safety. In 2017, Stratford Chefs School created Open Kitchen, which offers recreational cooking classes and culinary workshops for dedicated home chefs.

Coming in at #2 is Emily Griffith Technical College. Founded in 1916 by Denver educator Emily Griffith, it's a nationally accredited public college that aims to break through the barriers to higher education for those seeking economic mobility. Through its no-cost Culinary Quick Start program, students can train in its state-of-the-art commercial kitchen and be qualified to work as a prep or line cook in just three weeks.

The school's culinary arts program features lectures and demonstrations from experienced chefs, giving students the opportunity to learn the ins-and-outs of the restaurant and hospitality industries, as well as how to run their own business or food truck. Students also gain hands-on experience with all aspects of the restaurant business by working at Emily's Cafe under the supervision of an instructor.

Next up, at #3, we have Rouxbe, an online school that offers professional certification courses for cooks of all levels. Its online platform optimizes the learning experience through video, assessments, and instructor interaction, allowing students to advance their culinary skills and knowledge any time and on any device.

The company's membership plan provides users with unlimited access to various educational resources, including courses that cover topics such as knife skills, plant-based principles, and food safety. Its cooking lessons enable students to learn about specific subjects through instructional videos, practice exercises and recipes, and interactive quizzes.

Taking the #4 spot is Culinary Institute Lenotre. Founded in 1998, this Houston, Texas school welcomes beginners and professionals of all levels who are looking to enhance their skills and resumes. Students at Lenotre study both classic and contemporary methods, and expand their knowledge of various culinary topics including nutrition, menu development, and wine fundamentals.

The main campus features an award-winning on-site gourmet restaurant, Le Bistro, which offers qualified student chefs the opportunity to experience the profession through internships or practicum, and allows them to practice at real-time restaurant speed. The school also offers continuing education courses for amateurs, educators, and other food and beverage professionals.

Finally, at #5, we have MAD, a non-profit organization that seeks to empower the cooking and hospitality communities with the tools, inspiration, and knowledge to make a difference in their restaurants. Its programs include its biennial MAD Symposium, which brings together members of the global culinary community to discuss and shape the future of food.

The MAD Academy offers an executive program for rising leaders in the hospitality and food industries. Its curriculum focuses on environmental sustainability, leadership skills, and business management, and it aims to endow students with the practical tools and expertise they need to enhance their professional lives. The organization also has an ongoing series of public talks that discuss various issues in the world of food.