John Tiano’s Story – I worked in a paper recycling mill in Fairmont, WV for 28 years before it was shut down and all employees were terminated. During my unemployment, I was referred to the WIOA Program by Workforce West Virginia, and WIOA provided tuition assistance for my studies at Pierpont Community and Technical College. Thanks to this support, I completed the Pastry and Baking Arts C.A.S. within the Food Service Management Program. The program taught me essential culinary skills and instilled a professional work ethic and a deep understanding of nutritional standards and food principles.
The curriculum included course in mathematics, culinary history, computer science, business science, and the science of baking, all of which are instrumental in preparing me for my success. The instructors, who are ACF – certified chefs, were incredibly knowledgeable, helpful and fair.
With this comprehensive education, I will gain industry experience and eventually establish a bakeshop. I’m excited bout the prospects of putting my newfound knowledge and skills into practice in my own business.
I want to extend a special thank you to Caleb and the WIOA group in Fairmont, WV. They deeply understand the system and have been extremely helpful in assisting.