YW Culinary

YW Culinary is a free, 8-week culinary training program designed for individuals ready to launch a sustainable career in the food service industry. The program includes 8 weeks of intensive, hands-on culinary instruction followed by 2 weeks of externships and professional development. No high school diploma or GED is required—only a willingness to learn and grow. 

By joining YW Culinary, students become part of a supportive learning community where teamwork, encouragement, and shared growth are central to the experience. Students also play a vital role in YWCA’s hunger relief efforts, preparing nutritious dinner meals for residents at Mary Lou’s Place, YWCA’s emergency domestic violence shelter, gaining real-world experience while directly supporting fellow community members.  

YW Culinary Students Will:

  • Build strong culinary and food service skills through hands-on training 

  • Receive paid stipends at key points in the program and again after securing employment 

  • Prepare dinner meals for Mary Lou’s Place, contributing to community nourishment and care 

  • Strengthen key employment skills such as communication, interview practice, and resume development 

  • Receive individualized support from instructors and staff to help master technical skills and achieve career goals 

  • Earn ServSafe Food Handler and ServSafe Allergen certifications 

  • Access YWCA financial education resources, including Basic Money Management workshops and financial coaching  

  • Explore entrepreneurial possibilities in the culinary field and begin envisioning how your skills could support your own business one day. 

  • Participate in a program rooted in community building, dignity, safety, and trust where students uplift one another and build meaningful connections 

2-Week Job Placement and Externship Support:

Students who are prepared to go straight into employment will receive individualized job placement support, including:

  • Identifying job opportunities that align with their career goals and strengths 

  • Support with applications, interview preparation, and workplace readiness 

  • Assistance in securing employment with partner employers or other industry opportunities 

  • Ongoing job retention support to help students navigate challenges and stay successful in their new roles 

  • Continued check-ins and coaching to ensure a smooth transition into the workforce 

Students who want to build additional experience before seeking employment are placed in a 4week externship with an employer partner, where they can:

  • Work directly with culinary professionals in a food service setting aligned with their career goals 

  • Apply the culinary and food service skills learned during training in a new or larger kitchen environment, gaining exposure to different workflows and expectations 

  • Build confidence and independence while working alongside industry professionals 

  • Make valuable industry connections that can support future job opportunities 

SCHEDULE FOR COHORT II:

Externship: November 16 - 27

Training: September 22 - Nov 13

Class Schedule

  • Mondays: 10 am – 12 pm 

  • Tuesdays–Fridays: 10 am – 2 pm 

Join our upcoming in-person information sessions!

  • August 25 (10:30 am - 11:30 am)

  • August 27 (10:30 am - 11:30 am)

  • August 31 (10:30 am - 11:30 am)

Questions? You can always email Juan Fuentes, Workforce Development Manager, at jfuentes@ywca-ens.org

SIGN UP!
“YW Culinary has been the best thing that has happened to me.”
— 2019 Graduate