Optional hands-on workshops provide one-on-one demonstration in a small class. Add a workshop (fee required) when you register for ChefConnect or email [email protected] to add one to your existing registration. Hurry, space is limited!

Learn Creative Carving Techniques

ChefConnect: Charlotte

Grafitti Your Melon

Chef Stephan Baity, an award-winning carving competitor in ACF-sanctioned competitions, as well as Food Network's Cake Wars, will host a workshop on current techniques in the area of garde manger using armature designs to carve and assemble a showpiece to be displayed during the Welcome Reception.

ChefConnect: Newport Beach

Thai Fruit & Vegetable Carvings

Chef Laura Lynn will present a history of Thai fruit and vegetable carvings and then work with attendees on fruit and vegetable carving techniques. Loaner tools will be provided to workshop attendees.

ServSafe Refresher Course and Exam

A three-hour ServSafe refresher course and exam will be offered at ChefConnect: Charlotte and ChefConnect: Newport Beach. Taking this class will satisfy part of the requirements for ACF recertification. Separate registration and fees are required and space is limited. View schedule for pricing or email [email protected] to add this to your registration.

Register for ChefConnect: Newport Beach by Nov. 15 to Save

and Win!

Register for ChefConnect: Newport Beach by Nov. 15 to save up to $200 and be entered into a drawing to win an iPad and two tickets to Chef Carlton Brooks' private reception prior to the Vice Presidents' Gala. Prices increase after the early registration deadline.

ACFEF Legacy Apprenticeship Programs Shine During National Apprenticeship Week Nov. 13-19

ACFEF apprenticeships have expanded access to hands-on culinary training for emerging professionals since the formal program began in 1979. A culinary apprenticeship equips you with the skills to enter the workforce with ACF certification.

Regional Culinary Salon Competition Dates Posted

Dates and locations for ACF-sanctioned culinary salon competitions have been posted. Winners from the regional competitions will advance to the national competition during Cook. Craft. Create. ACF National Convention & Show in New Orleans, July 15-19.

CEC®/CEPC® Update

Effective Jan. 1, 2018, the Certified Executive Chef (CEC®) and Certified Executive Pastry Chef (CEPC®) certification levels will require a 30-hour course in Cost Control Management. Visit the Certification Page for more information.

CFC®/CFPC® Certification Update

If you have completed an ACFEF-accredited post-secondary certificate/diploma program but have no culinary work experience, you can still get a certification immediately without completing additional exams. Click below for more information and to download an application.

Do you want to be involved in the certification conversation? 

The Certification Commission is looking for a new member, preferably from the Western Region, who holds a CCC® or CSC® certification. All submissions will be reviewed and vetted by the Certification Commission Executive Committee. Please submit a letter of intention, resume and letter of chapter support to [email protected].   The deadline to submit is Friday, Dec. 15, 2017.

Fast Track Certification from ACF and WACS

ACF-certified chefs are eligible for the Worldchefs Global Culinary Certification. In just a few simple steps, candidates can make their existing qualifications go global! There are a number of paths to the fast track route; click below to learn more.

Knowledge Bowl Competition Deadline Approaching

The Baron H. Galand Culinary Knowledge Bowl is a "Jeopardy"-style competition with questions that cover nutrition, baking, culinary math, safety and sanitation, and the arts of classical and modern cooking. Teams have until Nov. 30 to register. Regional winners go on to compete at the national competition during Cook. Craft. Create. ACF National Convention & Show in New Orleans, July 15-19.

Call for Applications: ACF Culinary Youth Team USA 2020

Applications are being accepted for ACF Culinary Youth Team USA 2020. Each team member cannot be older than 23 years old on the qualifying date of April 1, 2020. For more information on the selection process, click the button below. Applications must be received by Dec. 1, 2017. 

ACF-Sanctioned Competition at the Hotel, Motel & Restaurant Supply Show of the Southeast

The Myrtle Beach Chapter of the American Culinary Federation will present the 14th annual hot and cold food competition and 2nd annual student competition in January. First-place winner receives $1,000 cash prize and runner-up receives $500 cash prize. Click below for more information.

ACF chefs are in the news and make a positive impact in their communities. Share your chapter's news with ACF by sending clips to [email protected] .

What's a Certified Master Chef doing at Campbell Soup Company?

Chef Thomas Griffiths, lead chef and VP Campbell’s Global Culinary Institute, shares why he switched from the culinary world to the corporate arena.

A One-Night Culinary Journey

This one-dinner-a-year event takes inspiration from the internationally known Chef’s Table.

Students Cook up Careers at Worcester Tech

Since the Culinary Arts program is certified by the American Culinary Federation, Cropper said students can earn certifications in nutrition, management, sanitation, and culinary arts once they complete the one-year program.

Knowledge Bowl Practice Edition

Looking to replicate the Knowledge Bowl competition in your school or practice for an upcoming Knowledge Bowl competition? The new Baron H. Galand Culinary Knowledge Bowl 2017 Practice Edition features 12 pre-loaded game boards and 12 customized game boards. Order yours from the ACF store.

Traveling for the holidays?

As an ACF member benefit, you can receive up to 25% off car rentals from Avis, Budget and more. Visit the Members Advantage Program to choose your preferred car rental discount.

HotelEngine Offer for Members

NEW! ACF members enjoy wholesale rates to more hotels, all with the convenience of a single travel search engine. You’ll be amazed how much more you’ll save, plus HotelEngine contributes a portion of sales to ACF programs. Click below for more information.