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Culinary Arts Continues To Expand; Shows Growth & Adds Equipment

The Culinary Arts program at Pennsylvania Highlands Community College is showcasing significant growth and success at its Center for Culinary Excellence in downtown Johnstown. This expansion underscores the program’s dedication to cultivating a highly skilled workforce to support the region’s hospitality and food service industries.

Recent improvements include the addition of cutting-edge kitchen facilities, a revamped curriculum centered on contemporary culinary trends, and a surge in enrollment driven by growing demand for the program. Students benefit from immersive, hands-on training and develop essential skills that equip them for thriving, dynamic careers in the culinary industry.

“We’re definitely improving in our growth,” Culinary Arts Program Director John Dusack stated. “With our students and equipment, we are becoming more established as a culinary program. That was the main goal.”

The program has seen remarkable growth, more than tripling its student enrollment since its launch in 2024.

Facility Enhancements

The Culinary Arts program has significantly expanded its resources to provide students with real-world experience in a professional setting. New additions include 12 commercial mixers, six induction burners, an industrial meat slicer, and a bread proofing cabinet, which complement the Culinary Center’s existing tools, such as a commercial deep fryer, gas grill, meat smoker, combination oven, and more.

A Look Ahead, New Courses

Looking ahead, the program is set to introduce a Nutrition class in Spring 2026, designed to focus on crafting recipes tailored for skilled clients in nursing homes or hospitals. Plans are also underway to add a wine and beverage course, which will teach students how to pair drinks with meals effectively and how to incorporate them into recipes.

“One great thing about our program is that you are learning hands-on how to make everything in the curriculum,” Dusack stated. “You start from the very basics of cooking and move up to advanced techniques, while working with different aspects of food such as gluten, proteins, and carbohydrates. We really aim to make our students capable of being well-rounded chefs.”

Gain Experience, Career Opportunities

Students are given valuable opportunities to showcase their skills, including preparing meals for external critique at special events held once per semester and attending the Penn Highlands Foundation’s annual Chef Auction. These events allow students to network with industry professionals, gain field insights, and even secure potential job opportunities.

Culinary Arts students have already made an impact, landing positions at esteemed establishments such as Seven Springs, Windber Country Club, Asiago’s, and more.

Join the Culinary Movement

With its growing reputation and robust resources, Penn Highlands’ Culinary Arts at Penn Highlands is paving the way for aspiring chefs to launch successful careers in the culinary field. For more information about the program, please click here.