ACF CHEFS OF
CHARLOTTE
AMERICAN CULINARY FEDERATION
chefs of charlotte
who we are...
The ACF - Chefs of Charlotte is a member based culinary organization in Charlotte NC, and is a local affiliate of the American Culinary Federation Inc.
The American Culinary Federation, Inc. (ACF), a professional organization for chefs and cooks, was founded in 1929 in New York City by three chefs’ organizations: the Société Culinaire Philanthropique, the Vatel Club and the Chefs de Cuisine Association of America. Since our inception, little has changed in our principal goals. We are an organization based on promoting the professional image of American chefs worldwide through education of culinarians at all levels.
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In 1976, ACF forever changed the culinary industry by elevating the position of the executive chef from service status to the professional category in the U.S. Department of Labor’s Dictionary of Official Titles. Since this change, the culinary industry and our organization have grown tremendously.
ACF is now the largest professional chefs’ organization in North America. We are made up of more than 14,000 members belonging to more than 170 chapters in four regions across the U.S. Today, ACF is the leader in offering educational resources, training, apprenticeship, competitions and programmatic accreditation designed to enhance professional growth for all current and future chefs and pastry chefs.
In addition, ACF operates the most comprehensive culinary certification program in the world. ACF is home to ACF Culinary Team USA, the official representative for the United States in major international competitions.
We also offer regional and national events, print and digital publications and much more to help foster the growth of professional chefs and the foodservice industry. IIf you are not part of our organization, we invite you to join us and gain access to the best culinary resources available.
what we offer
The Latest in Industry Trends
We keep our chefs abreast of culinary trends through:
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Seminars and workshops at local, regional and national events
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Our flagship magazine, National Culinary Review
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Our bi-weekly eNewsletter, The Culinary Insider
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Career Recognition
In a competitive industry such as ours, it’s important to set yourself apart from the competition.
Our certification program, competitions and awards will prove your skills as a professional culinarian and enhance your career opportunities.
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Accreditation for Culinary Education
When it comes to educational culinary programs, ACFEF is the national accrediting commission for culinary and pastry education programs at postsecondary institutions and secondary programs.
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An Honor Society
The American Academy of Chefs (AAC) promotes high standards and professionalism for the culinary arts. AAC ensure the future of the culinary industry through mentoring and scholarship programs.
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Representation in International Competitions
ACF Culinary Team USA represents the United States in multiple national and international competitions. ACF Culinary Team USA exemplifies professionalism and creativity and has a long history of gold medals and world titles.
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Access to a Million-Member Intercontinental Society
World Association of Chefs Society, or Worldchefs, is a global network comprised of more than 90 official chefs associations. Every ACF member is simultaneously enrolled in Worldchefs.
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A National Apprenticeship Program
To become a skilled culinary professional, hands-on experience is a must. American Culinary Federation (ACF) operates two and three year apprenticeship programs that combine on-the-job training with technical classroom instruction.