The South Georgia Technical College Culinary Arts Advisory Committee recently met at the college’s Crisp County Center to review the program and discuss ways to ensure students continue receiving training that reflects the needs and expectations of the food service industry.
Culinary Arts instructors Chef Johnny Davis, who leads the program on the Cordele campus, and Chef Ricky Watzlowick, who leads the program on the Americus campus, met with industry representatives and SGTC personnel to discuss program activities and receive feedback from professionals working in food service and related fields. Advisory committees provide an important connection between SGTC programs and industry, allowing employers and other professionals to offer input on workforce needs, current practices, and skills students need to succeed.
The meeting also provided Culinary Arts students with an opportunity to put their training into practice by preparing a meal for committee members under Davis' direction. The meal began with butterbean spread accompanied by freshly baked sourdough, French bread and milk rolls. A mixed greens salad with fried green tomatoes followed, with a choice of ranch, French or balsamic vinegar dressing. The main course featured filet with demi-glace and red pepper oil, 24-hour potatoes and broccolini. For dessert, guests could choose the Strawberry Kiss, featuring layered strawberry cake, a strawberry fritter and strawberry ice cream, or the Caramel Crush, featuring mini caramel cake with a tuile garnish, chocolate ganache, a sugar cookie and ganache, and caramel ice cream.
Attending the meeting were Davis and Watzlowick; Kelli Alexander and Katie Pollock of Magnolia Manor; Larry Jackson of Mixx Masters; retired food service consultant Ethel Waters; Lauriel Young of Aramark; Steve Southwell of Smoakies Catering; Culinary Arts lab technician Tera Parker; and Melissa Hollis, Administrative Assistant to the Vice President of Academic Affairs.
Input from advisory committee members helps SGTC evaluate its programs and maintain hands-on training that prepares students to meet current workplace expectations.
For more information about Culinary Arts and more than 200 other programs available at South Georgia Technical College, visit www.southgatech.edu.