Noah Kirkland shares his career path in the culinary arts. He is receiving on-the-job training at the award-winning Highlands Bar and Grill in Birmingham, Alabama, while pursuing a culinary arts degree. As a high school student, Noah participated in the Hospitality/Tourism career tech program, took culinary classes, and earned an industry-recognized ServSafe certification in his sophomore year. Noah and his team won 1st place in the state ProStart culinary competition. He received a full scholarship to Jefferson State Community College, where he is earning his culinary degree while he works as a line cook under some of the best chefs in the country. Annual income for an entry-level line cook ranges from $17,000 - $26,000. Annual income for a sous chef or head chef with an Associates Degree ranges from $40,000 - $78,000.

If you are interested or know someone who is interested in pursuing a culinary career, encourage them to reach out to their school counselor or career coach. Encourage interested adults to connect with their local career center and visit aptv.org/amgrad for more information.