Education & Certification Why Become Certified? Certification can be a confusing process once it is undertaken, and I hope to take that out of the equation for all that want to certify. I whole heartily volunteer my time and knowledge to any member that needs my assistance with any aspect of this process. I have given my contact information at the end of this article; please feel free to contact me with any question for any of the components of the certification process. The process of certification is in three parts. 1st is work history / experiences/ and education. A candidate must prove his / her compliance in these areas with the applicable points for the level of certification they are obtaining. 2nd is passing a written test for the particular level of certification. These tests are a multiple-choice format and can be taken at a Laser Grade test site. The ACF has a list of reference books and offers a separate web based exam practice test bank through eCulinary. 3rd is the passing of a practical exam under three approved ACF Practical Examiners. These exams are evaluations of work habits and execution of fundamental skills for each level of certification. Once all three tasks are completed, the American Culinary Federation will certify the candidate. Each one of these components can be confusing in there own rite and often get “muddled” over time within the process. I will be publishing separate articles for each component of the certification process in the forthcoming Lone Star to address the major points and questions. The biggest question I receive about certification is “why.” Some chefs feel that the certification process is too long or too difficult and cannot see a point to accomplish this professional mark during their busy work schedule. My response is always the same and is addressed as follows: 1. Certification Affirms Skills - To you, your employer, and your employees 2. Certification Raises the Bar for the Profession - When candidates certify, it proves our profession as a whole both internally and externally 3. Certification Provides a Clear Career Path - Most other industries do not provide this level of a “career ladder” to their own and fail to recognize the hard work and accolades of their professionals 4. Certification Empowers Yourself and Your Employer - With a marketable and tangle proven professional titles and set of skills 5. Certification Validates our Entire Industry - With a standard that all can obtain. With the “why” answered I hope to provide the “how”. Please use me as a source and reference. I am more than willing to do whatever it takes to make your professional plan a success. Please call on me with the simplest question all the way to invitation to your chapter for a seminar or practical practice session. Thank you, you truly honor me with your high standards and unwavering professionalism.