(Nelsonville, Ohio) - Hocking College continues to set a standard for culinary education by offering students hands-on experience and industry exposure. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the United States economy is projected to add 8.3 million jobs from 2021 to 2031. Of those, 1.9 million anticipated jobs are expected to be in leisure and hospitality.
The demand for skilled hospitality and culinary graduates is on the rise, not only within local markets but also on a global level, said Hocking’s Executive Director for Hospitality & Culinary Program, Hotel, Operation and Services, Eladio Vassell. “At Hocking College, we're committed to meeting this demand by offering a meticulously crafted curriculum taught by exceptional instructors. Our focus is on providing students with not just technical skills but also the essential interpersonal abilities needed to excel in the industry.”
Hocking’s McClenaghan Center for Hospitality Training offers three programs: Hospitality and Events Management, Culinary Arts, and Baking Arts. Accredited by the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation Accrediting Commission, both the Culinary and Baking Arts programs provide students with additional certification opportunities such as ServSafe Food Protection Management, Hospitality Supervision, and Certified Pastry Culinarian, among others.
This program will offer students hands-on experience through coursework and industry participation, and they will have the opportunity to learn from a master chef. Students will learn the fundamentals of culinary production, as well as the management skills of the modern kitchen.
In addition to culinary training, Hocking offers students unique opportunities for international and cultural exposure through its Culinary Study Abroad Program. Throughout the program, students have the chance to explore Europe, including destinations like Italy.
Vassell emphasized the importance of giving students real-world experience. "Our facilities, such as Rhapsody Music and Dining and the Lodge at Hocking College, provide students with exceptional hospitality and culinary training opportunities. For our culinary students who choose to study abroad, it's an excellent way to deepen their culinary knowledge and broaden their cultural horizons.”
Exciting developments are on the horizon for Hocking College's Culinary and Hospitality programs. Plans are underway to enhance the McClenaghan Center for Hospitality Training, ensuring the college's facilities align with industry standards and support students' skill development.
Vassell explained that any design or construction modifications will focus on providing opportunities for students to develop their skills and competencies. “We will also continue to collaborate with and involve the community in diverse projects aimed at fostering training and development opportunities, as well as using the latest technology in our classrooms and cooking labs so that students are at the forefront of technology.”
The proposed development will be done on a phase-by-phase basis.
For more information about Hocking College's Culinary Arts Program, please visit https://www.hocking.edu/culinary-arts-degree.
For more information about Hocking College’s Hospitality and Events Management, please visit https://www.hocking.edu/hospitality-and-events-management.
