Kentucky ProStart

e the shortage of qualified labor needed for the industry. To accomplish this, our vision is to create a system of high school hospitality courses linked with industry professional in-class visits and mentored worksite experiences. Kentucky schools can choose to participate in the ProStart program, which is backed by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF). The program is aimed at high school juniors and seniors who are looking to enter the job market, or making plans for college. Students are hired for internships by qualified businesses, where they receive firsthand training from worksite mentors. Back in the classroom, lessons and activities come alive as students make real world connections. Practical learning takes place both on the job and in the classroom. The ProStart program gives students a head start towards exciting and rewarding hospitality careers. It is no secret that the restaurant and food industry is growing. In fact, it is estimated that the restaurant industry is expected to add 1.3 million jobs over the next decade, with employment reaching 14 million by 2020. The number of foodservice managers is projected to increase 8% from 2010 to 2020. The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation is working hard — and getting results — in helping to meet this need through initiatives such as its ProStart program which encourages high school students to consider careers in the restaurant and foodservice industry.