Spicing Up the Future: IVA Culinary Students Shine at the Chilly Chili Cook-Off
There’s nothing like a warm bowl of chili to bring a community together. This is especially true when it’s served with local talent and youthful energy.
Last Valentine’s Day, Chester Park buzzed during the annual Chilly Chili Cook-Off. While the competition was fierce, one team brought a special kind of heat. These were the budding chefs from the Indian Valley Academy (IVA) Culinary Arts program.
More Than Just a Recipe For these students, this wasn’t just about a beef and bean recipe. Instead, it was a front-row seat to the food industry.
Furthermore, this participation marks a key milestone for The Almanor Foundation. This event supports our 2026 initiative to champion Career Technical Education (CTE) throughout Plumas County. By leaving the classroom, students gained real-world experience that a textbook simply cannot provide.
“Anytime we give students real-life experiences, it enhances their education,” says Veronica Tilton, Culinary Arts Program Director. “Consequently, they gain a better view of the culinary world. This helps them determine their future career path.”
Building Career-Ready Skills
Building Career-Ready Skills While the chili was the main attraction, the “secret sauce” was communication. In addition to cooking, students practiced vital interpersonal skills.
Lisa Kelly, TAF board member, noted the importance of this direct interaction. She explained that addressing people directly is a critical skill. In fact, it is just as important as the cooking itself when pursuing any career.
A Challenge for 2027
We want to extend a massive thank you to the students and faculty of IVA for their time and enthusiasm. You made this year’s Cook-Off one for the history books.
But why stop here? As we look toward next year, we’re laying down the gauntlet: We want to see a friendly “Chili Clash” between all the Plumas County culinary programs!
Want to learn more?
The Almanor Foundation is committed to powering community impact through education and workforce development. To learn more about our CTE initiatives or how you can get involved, reach out to us at [email protected].
