The ProStart® program, administered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) and state restaurant associations, is a two-year curriculum designed to teach high school students the management skills needed for a career in the restaurant and foodservice industry.  Students also have the opportunity to participate in paid internships where industry managers mentor them. 

When students meet academic standards, complete a checklist of competencies, and participate in at least 400 hours of a mentored work experience, they are awarded the ProStart® National Certificate of Achievement that signifies they are well qualified to enter the industry workforce. 

A ProStart® college prep program accomplishes the following:

• Increases industry involvement through mentors and sponsors
• Strengthens educator-industry partnerships
• Attracts quality students to hospitality industry careers
• Allows students to participate in relevant work experiences

Video Coverage of the 2010 National ProStart® Invitational Competition - May 2010
ProStart Students work with Food Network Star Guy Fieri - Nov. 2009

ProStart® is a registered trademark of the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation and is used under license by National Restaurant Association Solutions, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of the National Restaurant Association. Visit the national ProStart® site at www.prostart.restaurant.org.