Competencies, Knowledge, and Skills for Chefs Working in School Nutrition Programs

Authors

• Marjuyua Lartey Gibson Phd, RDN, The Institute of Child Nutrition Applied Research Division
• Jane Peterson PhD, RDN, The Institute of Child Nutrition Applied Research Division
• Kymberle Gordon Phd, The Institute of Child Nutrition Applied Research Division
• Shellie R. Hubbard MA, The Institute of Child Nutrition Applied Research Division
• Travis Brewington

Document Type

Technical Report

Publication Date

2025

Department

Nutrition and Food Systems

Abstract

As school nutrition programs increasingly employ chefs to enhance menu quality, culinary innovation, and operational effectiveness, there is a growing need to define the competencies required for success in these roles. Building upon previous research that identified the roles, responsibilities, and impact of chefs working in school nutrition programs, this study sought to develop a comprehensive competency framework for school nutrition chefs.

The study was conducted in three phases. An expert panel of school nutrition professionals, State agency staff, United States Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service representatives, and Culinary Institute of Child Nutrition staff first reviewed and confirmed functional areas, competency statements, and associated knowledge and skills. In the second phase, an electronic panel validated the framework through an online questionnaire. A final expert panel reviewed and provided recommendations for the development of the resource and accompanying implementation tools.

The resulting resource, Competencies, Knowledge, and Skills of Effective School Nutrition Chefs, includes 10 functional areas, 31 competencies, and 259 knowledge and skill statements. To support practical application, four competency-based tools were developed: a job description template, interview guide, performance plan, and career development plan. The framework provides school nutrition administrators and chefs with a structured resource to support hiring, training, performance management, professional development, and workforce planning. Findings contribute to the advancement of chef roles in school nutrition programs and provide guidance for strengthening culinary leadership and program effectiveness.

Recommended Citation

Institute of Child Nutrition. (2025). Competencies, Knowledge, and Skills for Chefs Working in School Nutrition Programs. University, MS: Lartey Gibson, M., Peterson, P., & Gordon, K.