It depends on individual abilities and interests, but most graduates work in restaurant and hotel services as cooks, assistant chefs, and in some cases, chefs, and managers.

It is an attractive career because there is always a need for culinary occupations: people will always dine out. It is an art form where creativity has no bounds, and the earning potential is unlimited.

The skills taught in this program include but not limited to customer service, food safety, knife skills, baking, cold food preparations, cooking methods, menu preparation and inventory and cost control.

The training gives students the 'hands on' skills that would require years in the field to learn. Additionally, these valuable skills allow students, who are already in the field, opportunities to move into higher positions.

Food service workers must be able to lift 50 lbs., stand most of the time, work fast and efficiently under pressure, and have the energy and stamina to work long and hard hours.

Graduates have been employed by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel, Catering by the Family, Mise en Place, Hillsborough County Public Schools, and in the quick service industry.

Advisory committee representatives and teachers provide students with guidance and recommendations. When employers notify the school of job openings, those vacancies are posted for access by all students of the Hillsborough Culinary Academies.