Shaping Virginia's Culinary Future
ProStart is a career and technical education program that unites the foodservice industry and the classroom to teach high school students culinary skills and restaurant management principles, as well as employability skills such as communication, teamwork, professionalism, and time management.
The program reaches more than 222,000 students in 2,200 schools in all 50 states, Washington, DC, and the Territories of Guam and Puerto Rico. Over the past 27 years, more than 1 million students have participated in ProStart.
ProStart is taught with a two-level curriculum that:
- Integrates practical skill sets
- Allows students to become familiar with restaurants and foodservice
- Exposes students to innovative career opportunities
- Provides tools and skills needed to become a successful industry leader
ProStart students finish the program ready to join the workforce and make an immediate impact in restaurants and foodservice.Students also learn the importance of arriving on time prepared for work, teamwork and accountability.
2025-2026 Virginia ProStart Calendar
ProStart Boot Camp - Blacksburg
Rescheduled Event Due to Weather
Friday, January 23
Virginia Tech University - Wallace Hall
ProStart Boot Camp - Richmond
VPSI Competitors & Teachers Only
Friday, January 30
Virginia State University
If you have any questions, or would like to host a Virginia ProStart event at your school, please reach out to Dr. Jai Girard.
How to Get Involved
Mentor ProStart Students
Engage with ProStart by visiting a ProStart classroom, hosting a field trip at your restaurant or offices, or observing students in the kitchen. Contact Dr. Jai Girard, Director of of Education & Workforce Development, to connect with your local ProStart school.
Hire a ProStart Student or Alumni
ProStart students know culinary arts and restaurant management essentials. They're dependable, natural leaders and are eager to learn.
Sponsor a Team
Give a ProStart team the opportunity to compete for scholarships at the National ProStart Invitational.