ProStart
An industry-driven program to develop industry leaders
ProStart is the two-year career-building program for high school students. Whether students are looking to enter the job market directly after graduating, or if they plan to attend college, a ProStart graduate makes a solid candidate for success.
Industry Driven Curriculum
Students follow the Foundations of Restaurant Management & Culinary Arts curriculum, developed by industry and academic experts. ProStart students spend two years in the classroom mastering the fundamental management and culinary skills needed for success. ProStart trains students on industry-specific skills that can be used in all aspects of the restaurant and foodservice industry.
Students leave the program with work readiness skills – including leadership, accountability, teamwork and responsibility – that they can take with them to positions in all industries.
Work & Learn
While classroom experience is necessary to learn the foundation of culinary and management skills, nothing beats real-life experience gained by working in the industry. ProStart students learn how to be an industry professional through hands-on work under the direction of a mentor. Mentors help students make the connection between their present performance and their future career.
Students will also learn the importance of arriving on time prepared for work, teamwork and accountability.
ProStart students put that learning to work on the job in qualified foodservice operations with industry professionals. In their mentored work experience, students receive mentor support, character development and real-world skills that give them a head start toward a career in the industry.
Industry Credentials
At the end of the program, ProStart graduates possess a solid foundation for their future careers, and they can earn the ProStart National Certificate of Achievement. This certificate recognizes students who have successfully passed the ProStart 1 and 2 exams and completed 400 hours working in the hospitality industry with mentored work. ProStart students who achieve the COA are eligible to earn special scholarships and course credit from colleges and universities across the country. It also opens the door to our vibrant and growing industry.
Over the last decade, ProStart has fostered countless success stories. With your help, there will be even more positive experiences to share in the future.
THANK YOU TO OUR 2025 PROSTART SPONSORS
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Connecticut Hospitality Educational Foundation
100 Great Meadow Road, Suite 100
Wethersfield, CT 06109