The Challenge: Florida’s biggest industry needs more employees
Foodservice is the largest employer in Florida
Growth has created an increased need for qualified foodservice employees
Projections show a 17,000 employee shortfall over the next 5 years in the hospitality industry workforce
The Solution: FRLA’s ProStart School-To-Career Program
ProStart curriculum was introduced in 1994 by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation
ProStart curriculum is a two year program that covers 25 different subject areas in foodservice and is taught to students from 10th to 12th grades
FRLA partners with restaurants to provide job experience for ProStart students in restaurant operations
FRLA creates programs and events to assist schools and industry with the implementation of the ProStart Program
FRLA creates programs and events to draw attention to the value of foodservice careers
Quick Facts: About Florida’s ProStart School-To-Career Program
The largest program of its kind in the United States and is taught in 236 high schools to nearly 20,000 students
Events and Initiatives sponsored by FRLA to enhance the program
ProStart Culinary Team Competitions – Over 400 students compete in four different competitions
National ProStart Culinary Competition – Winners of our State competition advance to the NRA’s national competition, courtesy of the FRLAEF.
Teacher Training Institute – Approximately 100 ProStart teachers spend a week training at a Johnson and Wales University to improve their culinary and teaching skills
ProStart Regional Teacher and Student Workshops – One day events held throughout the state to provide students and instructors with the opportunity to enhance their knowledge and skills
Post – Secondary Scholarship Awards
Food Safety Training – The FRLAEF provides Food Handler Certification and Certified Professional Food Manager Certification for a large number of students
The Challenge: 
