AMPED Initiative Bridges Military Service to Culinary Careers in Restaurants

AMPED Initiative Bridges the Gap to Restaurant Careers

The culinary landscape is about to witness a transformation as the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) hosts the inaugural AMPED initiative. This newly launched program aims to create pathways for military service members, offering them the necessary skills and insights needed to transition into promising careers within the restaurant and hospitality industries. The first event is set to take place from July 29 to July 31, 2025, at the Hormel Foodservice Headquarters located in Austin, Minnesota.

A Unique Opportunity for Military Personnel

Eighteen military service members from various branches, including the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Military Sealift Command, will participate in this innovative three-day experience. The AMPED initiative is not merely a training program; it's designed as a comprehensive experience that melds culinary arts with leadership development and a deeper understanding of the industry. As Rob Gifford, the president of the NRAEF, aptly put it, "AMPED is more than a training — it’s a bridge between military excellence and civilian opportunity."

The immersive program features hands-on culinary training, food science workshops, and supply chain sessions led by seasoned experts from Hormel Foods. Attendees will also have the chance to explore the renowned SPAM Museum, tour production facilities, and engage in mentorship and peer networking activities, all aimed at fostering their growth and adaptability in a new career path.

Expanding Horizons in the Restaurant Industry

With the AMPED initiative, the NRAEF showcases its ongoing commitment to empowering military foodservice personnel. This program builds on previous foundations marked by the Military Foodservice Awards, the Advanced Culinary Training Program (ACTP), and numerous apprenticeship and scholarship opportunities aimed at service members seeking to transition from military life to the vibrant world of restaurant and foodservice careers.

The NRAEF is dedicated to enhancing education and career development within the foodservice sector. By investing in military service members and helping them leverage their unique skill sets, the AMPED initiative contributes to a broader mission of attracting and nurturing talent in the hospitality industry.

As these service members prepare to navigate civilian careers, they will gain crucial insights from industry professionals about the diverse opportunities available to them, reinforcing their confidence and capability as they step into new environments.

The Path Forward

For those interested in learning more about the AMPED initiative or the various military programs offered by the NRAEF, additional information can be found at ChooseRestaurants.org/military. This initiative not only highlights the potential of military foodservice professionals but also underscores the significant role they can play in shaping the future of the restaurant and hospitality industries.

The NRAEF’s goal is not just to train; it strives to empower, attract, and advance today’s and tomorrow’s workforce in the restaurant sector. Through innovative approaches like the AMPED initiative, the NRAEF is setting the stage for exciting collaborations between military personnel and the rich landscape of culinary opportunities awaiting them.

In this rapidly evolving industry, such initiatives are crucial in forging connections that benefit not only the service members but also the restaurants eager to welcome their skills. The AMPED initiative might just be the turning point for many in redefining their career trajectories as they explore the uncharted territories of restaurant services.