The Food Services Training Program

Submissions are OPEN for Chef Ric's 4-month Food Service Training Program

Our unique COST-FREE program offers:

• 4 hour per day practical classes
(Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri)
(6am-10am,10am-2pm and 2pm-5pm)


• Theoretical classes
(every Wed 1pm-4pm)

• 40hr placement (non-paid) in leading hospitality establishments to kick start your career.

• Interview training.

• Resume building.

• Life coaching.


Students will receive the following certifications to kick-start their culinary careers:

• Food Handler (Basic.FST)
• First Aid
• WHMIS
• Chef starter kit (apron, shoes, etc)

Experiences students will gain include:

• Catering (weddings, events, BBQ)
• Food truck work
• Chef Ric’s retail storefront
• Time with guest chefs from all over Ottawa


Chef Ric's Food Services Training Program is all about offering equal opportunities that empower aspiring chefs. Our student applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. If you've submitted your application but weren't accepted for the current cohort, please note that we maintain a record of all applicants and will reach out to you before our next cohort begins. We appreciate your interest in our program and encourage you to stay connected with us for updates on future opportunities.

Next Cohort: May 6, 2024

Since 2004, over 90% of our graduates have found employment in the food services industry.

Chef Ric's Food Services Training Program (FSTP) is your gateway to an exciting and fulfilling culinary career! It's a program that is designed to provide all the necessary culinary skills and certifications needed to excel in a commercial kitchen, all at no cost.

Our comprehensive FSTP curriculum encompasses both practical and theoretical skills, ensuring students are well-prepared for the challenges of the culinary world. From hands-on training using industry-kitchen equipment, to in-depth lectures and demonstrations by esteemed guest chefs, our program offers a holistic approach to your culinary education.

During the 4 months, students will gain 200+ hours of commercial kitchen training. By the time students graduate from our program, their certifications and hours of experience often lead to exciting employment opportunities.

Additionally, we provide 10 weeks of Food Theory education using the same textbooks as local colleges, setting students up for success in the hospitality industry. We partnered with St. Lawrence College to offer interview training, resume building, communication skills workshops, and more. Our goal is to empower students with the knowledge and confidence they need to make a lasting impact in the culinary world.

We believe in making culinary education accessible to all, that's why there is absolutely no cost to join our program.

The only requirement to join is the desire to change your life for the better.

Apply to Chef Ric's Food Services Training Program and let us help you turn your culinary dreams into reality. Your culinary adventure begins here!

Want to change your life? Apply for the Food Services Training Program!