CULINARY ARTS PROGRAM

Culinary Arts & Food Operations Program

Get comprehensive and culinary training, including foundational skills and techniques, with Omni Center Culinary Arts & Food Operations Program.

For youth one of the best recipes for success combines useful skills, newfound confidence and positive ways to spend time upon release. The Omni Center Culinary Arts & Hospitality program is a cornerstone of how we help youth create more positive futures. And, since the program involves food, it is not surprisingly one of the most popular programs with the teens we serve.

Culinary Arts Training: In addition to studying with our staff chefs, students receive hands-on training with executive chefs and restaurant professionals from the community, where they learn cooking techniques and professional skills needed to work in food service.

Food Manager or Food Handler Certification: In the State of Missouri, a restaurant or culinary institution must have a certified Food Handler or Food Manager on duty at all times. These professionals ensure procedures are in place to prevent food borne illness. Our training begin each culinary cohort with food safety training. Participants learn basic health and safety standards and, on passing an examination, receive a Food Handler or Food Manager certification that gives them an advantage in the job market.

Real-world Experience: Our culinary program features “Earn & Learn” work opportunities where students prepare and serve at Omni Banquet Center or community event. Students are involved in every aspect of a catering event from menu planning and food prep to front of house service and event planning. Those who excel in the program are referred to employer partners in the community.

Nutrition Education: Students learn the fundamentals of a healthy diet, including understanding food ingredients and how to create nutritious meals. Guest speakers from community-based nonprofits also join our classroom to share their knowledge with our students.