2025 ProStart Professional Development at US Foods

On September 19, 2025, ProStart educators from across Connecticut gathered at US Foods in Norwich, CT for a day filled with learning and collaboration. The event, hosted in partnership with US Foods, had a mix of professional development sessions, culinary demonstrations, and industry insights, all of which were centered around supporting the growth and success of our ProStart programs statewide.

The day began with a wonderful autumnal breakfast provided by US Foods, setting a warm and welcoming tone for the sessions ahead.

Shannon kicked off the morning by leading sessions on the brand-new Third Edition of the ProStart curriculum, Foundations of Restaurant Management & Culinary Arts, and emphasized the importance of annual data collection, a vital step in strengthening our statewide impact and ensuring continued support for the program.

Following that, Jennifer led informative sessions highlighting the progress of Connecticut’s approval as an official CTSO (Career and Technical Student Organization) and discussed exciting updates about this year’s upcoming State Competition, with its location still being determined.

For lunch, US Foods went above and beyond. They not only provided an incredible meal but also turned it into a hands-on learning opportunity. Educators gathered around the kitchen as US Foods’ team showcased industry trends in RTU (Ready-to-Use) foods, explaining their ease of use, high quality, as well as the cost and time-saving advantages for food service operations.

The lunch menu featured an array of delicious RTU offerings, including cheesy croquettes, pillowy gnocchi, tender brisket, fresh vegetables, and a seasonal autumn harvest salad just to name a few. Each dish served as both a teaching tool and a tasting experience, demonstrating the innovation and practicality behind modern foodservice solutions.

After lunch, US Foods led a session on costing and inventory, drawing a connection between the lunch demo and classroom application. The day concluded with open discussions and best practices among educators, allowing everyone to share insights, challenges, and ideas for strengthening their local programs and preparing students for success.

US Foods was an amazing host, and we are deeply grateful for their hospitality, expertise, and continued partnership. This professional development day was a shining example of how collaboration between educators and industry can drive the ProStart program and our students forward.