#United States #Las Vegas #Culinary Academy #CALV Forward

Culinary Academy of Las Vegas Breaks Ground on CALV Forward Project

The Culinary Academy of Las Vegas (CALV) officially kicked off its ambitious CALV Forward project on December 11, 2024. This groundbreaking initiative is not just a physical expansion, but a strategic commitment to enhance the training landscape tailored to meet the demands of the flourishing Las Vegas hospitality industry.

Dr. Bobbi Damrow, CEO of CALV, stated, "This project, predominantly funded by Clark County and the State of Nevada, encompasses 30,500 square feet of new and renovated space. It is designed to increase training capacity, modernize facilities, and expand the pipeline of trained workers, all while providing critical opportunities for upward economic mobility." This comprehensive development plans to boost the academy’s operational facilities, alongside reinforcing CALV’s dedication to innovative and relevant training methods.

Project Highlights

1. Renovations of Culinary Spaces: The beloved student-operated Westside Bistro and kitchen will undergo significant renovations to enhance the dining experience and learning opportunities for students.
2. New Coffee Shop: An exciting addition will be a public-facing coffee shop, operated by students. This new venture aims to provide practical business training in a real-world setting.
3. Housekeeping Training Concept Rooms: For the first time, CALV will introduce dedicated training rooms specifically designed for housekeeping training, recognizing the vital role it plays in hospitality.
4. Modern Classrooms: The educational facilities will see upgrades in food and beverage classrooms, facilitating state-of-the-art learning environments.
5. Expanding Curriculum: There will be expanded spaces allocated for English language training and continuing education classes, allowing for a more diversified educational approach.
6. Supportive Services: Renovations will also focus on promoting student success through enhanced supportive services, ensuring that each graduate is well-equipped for future challenges.

Since its inception in 1993, CALV has proudly trained over 60,000 individuals, with around 30% of its students hailing from the five most underserved ZIP codes in Clark County. According to D. Taylor, a trustee representing UNITE HERE, "Collaborations with over 30 public and private agencies that provide student support services have contributed to an 80% graduation rate, with 88% of graduates securing immediate employment." These statistics underscore the academy's pivotal role in fostering economic growth in the region.

Board trustee Matt Krystofiak, representing The Venetian Resort Las Vegas, acknowledged the united efforts that made this project a reality by saying, "This project is a testament to the power of collaboration and shared vision." The commitment shown by local legislators and community partners to support CALV’s mission has been instrumental in the development of this initiative.

For those interested in learning more about the CALV Forward project or how to get involved, they can reach out at 702-924-2100 or visit their website at www.theculinaryacademy.org.

The Culinary Academy of Las Vegas is recognized nationally as a leading nonprofit hospitality training academy, partnering with over 50 major properties and unions, including Locals 226 and 165, to provide top-notch industry-relevant training. With a focus on careers that promise living wages, benefits, and opportunities for advancement, CALV is positioned to make a lasting impact on the Las Vegas hospitality scene.