The WACTC Culinary Arts program prepares students for an industry in increasing demand of quick, reactive and dedicated professionals. From planning and preparing dishes to entire meals, graduates find themselves prepared not only for commercial kitchens, and also poised to pursue additional education in the fields of Food and Beverage and Hospitality Management.
Qualified graduates will receive college credits. ​

VIDEO PRODUCED BY WACTC DIGITAL MEDIA STUDENTS

Student & Parent, why does the Career Tree matter to you?

1. The first set of branches is the Entry-Level Careers that students unlock by completing the Culinary Arts program at WACTC. 
2. Students can unlock the next level, the Technical Careers, by pursuing additional education such as an associate’s degree, advanced certification, apprenticeship, or other specialized training.
3. They push their education even further with a bachelor’s, master’s, Ph.D., or specialized training, they can unlock the Professional Careers.

What Chefs and Head Cooks Do

Chefs and head cooks oversee the daily food preparation at restaurants and other places where food is served.

Work Environment

Chefs and head cooks work in restaurants, private households, and other establishments where food is served. They often work early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and holidays. The work can be hectic and fast-paced. Most chefs and head cooks work full time.

How to Become a Chef or Head Cook

Most chefs and head cooks learn their skills through work experience. Others receive training at a community college, technical school, culinary arts school, or 4-year college. Some learn through apprenticeship programs.

Pay

The median annual wage for chefs and head cooks was $48,460 in May 2018.