CCC Adds Sizzle to Culinary Resumés

Launching a career in the culinary arts may not be easy for some. Most culinary schools cost thousands of dollars to attend. In the California Conservation Corps, the CCC pays Corpsmembers to learn on the job, earn certifications, and gain the hands-on experience necessary to land a career.

“This is what I want to in life,” said CCC Los Piños Corpsmember Bianca Gudino, of Chula Vista. “I used to cook at home, but it’s different here because you’re actually cooking for a lot of people. The CCC has this program, so why not take advantage of that?”

The CCC Culinary program is available for Corpsmembers at the nine CCC residential centers across California. Culinary Corpsmembers earn their ServSafe food handlers and managers certifications, are paid a monthly stipend of $2,700, have a place to live, are provided health insurance, and even earn scholarship money to further pursue their cooking careers.

“The CCC is definitely a life changer,” said Delta Corpsmember ShayVonna Jackson, of Sacramento. “This is my first job. It’s been a great experience. It’s for people who want to build on their resumé and get some experience.”

A year in the CCC Culinary program prepares Corpsmembers for real world careers in commercial kitchens, resorts, restaurants, and more. Corpsmembers help staff prepare and serve meals to Corpsmembers living at center and also assist with emergency response by cooking for hundreds of firefighters responding to wildfires.

CCC Delta Corpsmember ShayVonna Jackson prepares dinner in the center’s kitchen in Stockton, CA.

“They need their food, they need their nutrition,” said CCC Magalia Corpsmember Mark Polloi, of Sacramento. “It feels good cooking for the firefighters. You understand why you’re waking up so early and then while you’re working that you’re actually helping the fight against wildfires.”

Those interested in joining the CCC Culinary program must be 18 to 25, or U.S. military veterans up to age 29. You can apply online today at ccc.ca.gov