On Monday, October 6, 2008 go2 formally announced the upcoming modifications to BC’s existing cook training program at Vancouver Community College’s J.J.’s Dining Room.
In the above photo, go2's Debbie Yule, Regional Executive Chef of Aaramark Canada Chris Kluftinger and Red Seal Chef Andrew George Jr. were among those celebrating the year-long collaborative effort between industry and educators. This collaboration ensures the next generation of professional cooks are trained to the highest standards, in order to meet the needs of BC’s foodservice and hospitality industry.
Vice Chair of go2’s Board and General Manager of Laurel Point Inn, Ian Powell, was the evening’s MC to the 80 guests.
go2 provides training for the province’s tourism and hospitality industry. It was granted approval earlier this year by the Industry Training Authority (ITA) for modifications to the existing accredited provincial cook training program.
Chair of go2’s Board and Director of Operations of A&W, Western Canada, Rob Fussey along with the ITA's CEO, Kevin Evans (not in photo), emphasized that the modified provincial program will allow all employers and cooks to participate in the program, as well as create opportunities for both to receive tax incentives and credits.
Chris Kluftinger explained the modifications, which includes the creation of two new distinct provincially recognized Certificates of Qualification and a modification to the current accredited Cook program. The new program structure will mean that a Certificate of Qualification will be issued for Professional Cook 1, Professional Cook 2 or Professional Cook 3 at each stage of training and work experience – with the interprovincial Red Seal for the cook profession affixed to the Professional Cook 3 Certificate.
And there will continue to be the opportunity and process for those with industry experience but no formal training to challenge any one or more of the credentials. For more information on the new Cook program, click here.
Above: White Spot HR Director Denise Buchanan, White Spot President Warren Erhart and go2 CEO Arlene Keis.
Vancouver-based White Spot restaurants continues to play a huge role in apprenticeship training through its fully trained in-house apprenticeship program - which is an ITA pilot program.
These culinary arts students were two of many on-hand preparing and serving delicious appetizers at live cook stations.
With the program changes, there will also be a full integration of the current Apprenticeship, Foundation and high school ACE-IT culinary programs. This means the pathway to provincially and nationally recognized credentials is clearly defined and equal in duration and assessment criteria regardless of which program apprentices enroll in.
Above (L to R): Heidi Romich, Vice Chair of BC Restaurant and Foodservices Association, Helen Sawchuck, go2 Controller, and Charmaine Carswell, HR manager for Grouse Mountain.
The target implementation date for province-wide integration of the newly modified program is September 2009. Click here to read the media release.
