ST. LOUIS (Nov. 1, 2024) – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Job Corps program and the Walt Disney World Culinary Program continued to expand their partnership by hosting a third Culinary Career Fair, at the St. Louis Job Corps campus. Students from 20 campuses from across the country attended the multi-day event, which took place Monday, Oct. 28, through Tuesday, Oct. 29. A total of 27 students who attended the event have received job offers thus far. 

“For more than 60 years, Job Corps has dedicated itself to equipping students with the education and skills necessary for success in high-demand careers,” said Job Corps National Director John E. Hall. “By furthering our partnership with such a reputable employer as Disney, these career fairs provide students with the unique opportunity to connect with Disney recruiters and receive insights from culinary leaders.” 

During the event, Job Corps officials and Disney’s senior culinary recruiter, Chef Pauli Milotte, spoke with students about career opportunities in the culinary industry upon graduation. St. Louis-based chefs, including Cathy’s Kitchen and Diner owner Chef Cathy Jenkins and award-winning sugar artist, culinarian and pastry chef, Chef Jessie Bostick, performed culinary demonstrations and shared industry expertise with the students.  

“Disney is committed to fostering the next generation of culinary talent, and our partnership with the Department of Labor’s Job Corps program is a testament to that dedication,” said Walt Disney World Senior Chef Recruiter Chef Pauli Milotte. “By collaborating with Job Corps to host culinary job fairs, we gain a unique opportunity to engage directly with a pool of highly trained, passionate culinary students who are ready to launch their careers with Disney.” 

Students from 20 different Job Corps campuses, including Atterbury, Brooklyn, Dayton, Edison, Excelsior Springs, Exeter, Glenmont, Grafton, Hubert H. Humphrey, Joliet, Maui, New Hampshire, Penobscot, Ramey, San Diego, San Jose, South Bronx, St. Louis, Treasure Island and Westover, attended the event. 

The Culinary Career Fair is part of a broader Job Corps initiative to establish more pipeline pathways for students to meet the growing demands of employers within the culinary industry. This event is the third of its kind, following two Disney Culinary Career Fairs in partnership with the New Orleans Job Corps. 

To learn more about the St. Louis Job Corps campus and career path opportunities, visit https://stlouis.jobcorps.gov/.