James November-December 2024 web - Flipbook - Page 45
team competition where students compete for scholarships and the right to represent Georgia at the National ProStart Invitational.
According to Fischer, 10 Georgia high schools
participated in the competition last year and Georgia’s culinary team finished an impressive 11th in
the nation.
FISCHER WITH STUDENTS ATTENDING THE 2024 NRA EDUCATION
FOUNDATION PROSTART NATIONALS IN BALTIMORE, MD.
20 jobs within the Peach State. This strong economic
multiplier effect highlights the industry’s vital role in
sustaining Georgia’s broader economic landscape.
Workforce Development Partner
The GRA Foundation is the only 501(c)(3)
non-profit foodservice organization dedicated to
investing in youth and workforce in Georgia. This is
accomplished through investment and partnerships
with a program called ProStart.
According to Fischer, Georgia ProStart gives
students a platform to discover new interests and
talents to open doors for fulfilling careers. From culinary techniques to management skills, ProStart’s
industry-driven curriculum provides real-life experience opportunities and builds practical skills and a
foundation that will last a lifetime.
Founded nationally in 1997, ProStart is a prestigious two-year culinary arts and restaurant management program designed for high school students.
ProStart has become a leading educational pathway
for aspiring culinary professionals. The program
currently engages approximately 165,000 students
across 1,800 schools in all 50 states, Washington,
D.C., and the U.S. territory of Guam.
Currently, Georgia has 26 schools enrolled in
ProStart with over 3,500 students statewide. The
program aims to integrate practical skill sets while
exposing students to innovative career opportunities.
It’s significant to note that through ProStart, students develop essential skills. They include culinary
techniques, teamwork, professionalism, safety and
sanitation and menu planning.
In addition, the Georgia ProStart State Invitational
is a statewide culinary and hospitality management
What does the future hold?
As for coming years, Fischer says the GRA will
redouble its championing the diverse voices and
vibrant culinary traditions that define the state’s
restaurant industry. The association’s strategic priorities include exploring innovative solutions to address
industry-wide issues like sustainability, digital transformation, and workforce development.
Indeed, the state’s restaurant industry will grow
and diversify. And the association will undoubtedly
continue to market itself as it continues to play a
vital role in shaping its future— celebrating culinary
excellence, advocating for fair policies and fostering
a community where every restaurateur can achieve
the American dream of prosperity.
Cindy Morley is a staff writer for James and James Magazine Online.
45
