ProSTART
ProStart is a nationally recognized, two-year career and technical education program developed by the National Restaurant Association that prepares high school students for careers in the restaurant and hospitality industry through a combination of classroom learning and real-world experience. The program covers a wide range of topics, including culinary techniques, food safety and sanitation, cost control, customer service, and restaurant management, giving students a well-rounded foundation in both the front and back of house. One of the most exciting aspects of ProStart is the opportunity to compete in culinary and management competitions at the state and national levels, where students demonstrate their skills through timed cooking challenges or by developing and presenting original restaurant concepts. These competitions build teamwork, creativity, leadership, and professionalism while allowing students to showcase their talents to industry professionals. Beyond competitions, ProStart opens the door to numerous educational opportunities, including scholarships, internships, networking connections, and pathways to postsecondary programs in culinary arts and hospitality. Students can also earn industry-recognized certifications, such as ServSafe, further preparing them for immediate employment or continued education. Overall, ProStart provides students with hands-on experience, valuable industry insight, and a strong foundation for future success in the culinary and hospitality fields.
Management
The ProStart Management Competition is a dynamic, team-based event that challenges students to develop and present an original restaurant concept, combining creativity with real-world business skills. Participants are responsible for creating a detailed proposal that includes a menu, marketing plan, operations strategy, and financial projections, then presenting their concept to a panel of industry professionals. This competition helps students build skills in leadership, communication, critical thinking, and entrepreneurship while giving them insight into what it takes to successfully run a restaurant. Demonstrating the strength of our program, students Kaylie Jade and Jenna Macholanal earned first place at the Indiana 2026 FCCLA Conference with their outstanding management concept, showcasing their innovation, professionalism, and dedication to excellence in the hospitality industry.
ProSTART Culinary
ProStart Culinary is a competitive, hands-on component of the culinary program that allows students to showcase advanced cooking techniques, teamwork, and professionalism in a high-pressure environment. Within the Foodies Rock program, it is a major point of pride, representing the highest level of skill and dedication among student chefs. Being selected for the Westfield ProStart Culinary team is a highly selective achievement, as students must demonstrate strong technical ability, work ethic, and commitment to the program. Team members train extensively and represent Westfield in competitions, making it both an honor and a defining experience for those pursuing careers in the culinary and hospitality industry
Leadership
Our ProStart team is led by Chef Duda and Chef Heflin, whose experience, dedication, and passion for culinary education drive the success of our program. Through their guidance, students develop advanced skills in cooking, teamwork, and professionalism while preparing for high-level competitions. Their mentorship not only strengthens students’ technical abilities but also builds confidence, leadership, and a strong work ethic, making them an essential part of the Foodies Rock and ProStart experience.