First Students Graduate from Expanded Program at Soundview’s Culinary Center at Allie’s Place

The Culinary Center at Allie’s Place recently celebrated the graduation of the first cohort of students to complete the Center’s expanded 60-hour culinary training program, designed to prepare students for careers in the food and hospitality industry and beyond.

The updated training program gives students experience in Culinary Essentials, Pastry Arts, and Hospitality, combining courses that were previously offered individually into a seamless learning experience that strengthens skill retention. Throughout the program, students build foundational kitchen skills, learn food safety and sanitation practices, explore baking and pastry techniques, and gain real-world customer service experience through café pop-ups and catered events.

“Our current program no longer has the breaks in between the topics,” said Director of Culinary Education Gregorio Pedroza. “By running one intensive, our students are more likely to retain what they have learned. More importantly, they spend more time working in a professional space and building the muscle memory of routine, multi-tasking, and building a camaraderie with their fellow line cooks/students.”

Over the past several months, the Culinary Team has continued expanding and refining the program through curriculum development and professional growth opportunities. They have continued honing their skills, exploring new techniques, and expanding their industry knowledge to bring even more value to students entering the workforce.

In addition to culinary instruction, employment preparation & workforce development continues to be incorporated including resume and cover letter writing, interview preparation, and professional skills training to help participants successfully enter the workforce. The program’s emphasis on communication, professionalism, teamwork, and customer service also helps students build skills that can be applied far beyond the kitchen.

“As this first cohort graduates, I can say without a shadow of doubt that they are stepping out into the real world with a greater sense of understanding and self-worth,” said Pedroza. “Not only as cooks, but as people.”

The application process has also been streamlined and updated to give prospective students a clearer understanding of the program’s goals, expectations, and opportunities from the very beginning. Applicants can now also include their resume when applying.

“The application process is the Culinary Center’s first opportunity to make a strong first impression regarding the intensity of our goals and purpose,” said Pedroza. “Future students deserve to know that they will be uplifted, advocated for, and respected in our program.”