ECC Culinary Arts Program Open House is Today

Two sessions are planned with the first set from 1 to 4 p.m. The first tour is primarily for potential culinary students, foodservice and culinary professionals as well as high school educators.

The second session, which will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., is geared to the general public, particularly anyone interested in cooking and culinary education.

Both sessions will include demonstrations with chefs and skilled artisans showing typical lessons ECC culinary students experience.

Some demonstrations will include the techniques of sauté, bread and confection production in the bakeshop, table settings, ice carving and tableside cooking,

The first session will feature fish breakdown and fabrication while those attending the evening session will learn about smoked foods and sausage production.

Refreshments will be provided by ECC students at both sessions.

People attending also can tour the vegetable and herb garden, learn about the online component of the culinary program and visit exhibits set up by several vendors from the food service industry.

Staff from the ECC admissions office will be on hand to discuss enrollment and financial aid options.

Faculty members will be available to answer questions about the culinary program.

Chef Ted Hirschi, certified executive chef and coordinator of ECC’s culinary arts program, said he hopes people will take advantage of the opportunity to learn about the program.

“I think people who enjoy cooking would appreciate touring our culinary kitchen to get a sense of everything our students learn,” he said.

ECC’s culinary program has been accredited by the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation since 2004.

In 2010 the program received exemplary status, one of only 61 in the world to earn that recognition.

ECC students can pursue an associate degree or a certificate of achievement in culinary arts.

For more information about the open house or culinary program, people may call 636-584-6686 or email Hirschi@eastcentral.edu.