The ten-week Culinary Training Program (CTP) was created in 1991 to prepare individuals for entry-level positions in the food service industry, especially institutional kitchens such as those found in hospital and corporate cafeterias. The program consists of six weeks of classroom training followed by a four-week externship. The classroom training includes Life Skills such as effective communication, work place issues and time management, culinary theory, and a food service practicum. The externship, often conducted in the food services departments of Westside hospitals, provides students who may have little employment history with recent work experience and professional references (please see below for a list of some of our externship partners). All classes are provided free of charge to participants and include such supportive services as resume assistance and arranged job interviews for graduates.

CTP students often lack not only education and income, but also self-esteem and an effective support system. Many have barriers to employment that prevent them from re-entering the workforce. The encouragement of CTP staff and mutual support among students instill hope and confidence in participants, comprising important components of their experience in the program and their ability to find employment.

Guest Chefs
CTP has always had a variety of culinary professionals come in to speak to students and sometimes lead cooking demonstrations. Since we moved into our new training kitchen at 204 Hampton Drive, we've been keeping a gallery of our illustrious guests who have so generously donated their time and expertise. Visit the gallery here.

Externship Partners

Our students go to externships after they complete their classroom training. We deeply appreciate the support of our our externship partners who make this hands-on experience possible in a variety of settings that range from institutional kitchens to fine dining restaurants. Our current partners include:

 
     
 

Chinois on Main

 
     
 

Spago

 
     
 

Michael's: Santa Monica

 
     
 

The Peninsula Hotel - Beverly Hills

 
     
 

Border Grill

 
     
   
     
 

Bob's Market

 
     
 

Giggles and Hugs

 
     
 

Shaffer's Genuine Foods

 
     
 

Kensington Caterers

 
     
 

Annie’s Edibles

 
     
 

Project Angel Food

 
     
 

Cafe Pinot (Patina Group)

 
     
 

Fraîche (Culver City & Santa Monica)

 
     
 

Culver Hotel

 
     
 

New Directions Inc.

 
     
 

St. John’s Health Center

 
     
 

Umami Burger

 
     
 

Volunteer Opportunities
We welcome classroom visits and kitchen demonstrations from culinary professionals. If you work in the culinary field (not only as a chef, but or in any food service-related capacity) and would like to participate in this way, please contact contact our Volunteer Services Coordinator for more information.