Pennsylvania ProStart

Feeding Dreams. Building Futures. Developing today’s high school students into tomorrow’s restaurant and and hospitality leaders.

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About the ProStart Program

What is ProStart?

ProStart® is a two-year, industry-backed culinary arts and restaurant management program for high school students. The program provides practical skills and real-world educational opportunities to open doors for fulfilling careers in the restaurant and foodservice industry.

ProStart Curriculum

ProStart utilizes the Foundations of Restaurant Management & Culinary Arts curriculum, developed by the National Restaurant Association in partnership with academic and industry experts. A blended coverage of culinary arts and management topics are designed to develop well-rounded skills that translate to today’s workplace.

ProStart Invitational

Each winter, the Pennsylvania ProStart Invitational is held in State College. The competition gives students real-world experience and tests their skills and knowledge in both culinary arts and restaurant management. The first-place teams in each division move on to represent Pennsylvania at the National ProStart Invitational. They will compete for scholarships to the country’s top post-secondary culinary arts and hospitality programs and more importantly, bragging rights!

ProStart Certificate of Achievement

ProStart’s National Certificate of Achievement (COA) is an industry-recognized certificate awarded to students who have completed the requirements of the ProStart program. Earning the COA can give students a leg up in employment search and opens the door to collegiate opportunities. Students must complete the program, pass two national exams and complete 400 hours of mentored work experience to earn the certificate.

Students

Feeding Dreams. Building Futures. Developing today’s high school students into tomorrow’s restaurant and and hospitality leaders. Learn More

Educators

ProStart educators help build the future leaders of the restaurant and foodservice industry. Learn More

Industry

Choose to be a key player in the future of this industry, where you can inspire young people, offer avenues for advancement and tell the world about the endless opportunities available in the restaurant industry. Learn More