Student Organizations
What is SkillsUSA?
Overview of SkillsUSA
SkillsUSA is a national membership association serving high school, college and middle school students who are preparing for careers in trade, technical and skilled service occupations, including health occupations, and for further education. SkillsUSA is a partnership of students, teachers and industry working together to ensure America has a skilled workforce. SkillsUSA helps each student excel.
ProStart Competitions
Program Overview
With national and local support from industry members, educators, the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) and state restaurant association partners, ProStart® reaches nearly 140,000 students in more than 1,800 high schools across 50 states, the Territory of Guam and the Department of Defense Education Activity schools in Europe and the Pacific.
From culinary techniques to management skills, ProStart’s industry-driven curriculum provides real-life experience and opportunities that build practical skills and a foundation that will last a lifetime.
How ProStart Works
By bringing together the industry and the classroom, ProStart gives students a platform to discover new interests and talents to open doors for fulfilling careers. It happens through a curriculum that includes all facets of the industry, and sets a high standard of excellence for students and the industry.
ProStart National Certificate of Achievement
Students who have completed the requirements of the ProStart program are awarded an industry-recognized certificate – the ProStart National Certificate of Achievement. To earn the certificate, students pass two national exams, demonstrate a mastery of foundational skills and work 400 mentored hours.
Students who receive the certificate are eligible for NRAEF scholarship opportunities and course credits at more than 75 of the country’s leading hospitality and culinary arts colleges and universities.