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.

2024-2025 ProStart Calendar

ProStart Boot Camp - Northern Virginia
Monday, November 4, 2024
Falls Church High School
ProStart Boot Camp - Blacksburg
Friday, November 8, 2024
Virginia Tech
ProStart Boot Camp - Richmond
Friday, November 22, 2024
ECPI University - College of Culinary Arts
ProStart Boot Camp - Harrisonburg
Friday, December 6, 2024
James Madison University
ProStart Boot Camp - Roanoke
Friday, January 31, 2025
Virginia Western Community College
ProStart Boot Camp - Petersburg
Wednesday, February 5, 2025
Virginia State University
ProStart Boot Camp - Norfolk
Friday, February 7, 2025
Culinary Institute of Virginia - Norfolk

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 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.
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