ACFF Apprenticeship Program Models

Several models are available for administering an American Culinary Federation Foundation (ACFF) apprenticeship training program, as described below. In addition, ACFF also offers a national apprenticeship training program online through eCulinary.

American Culinary Federation (ACF) Chapter Model
The ACF chapter takes an active role in maintaining the program through a committee. Chapter volunteers recruit and select apprentices, maintain records, visit work sites and work closely with an educational institution or teach courses.

Educational Institution Model
The institution, through a program coordinator or faculty member, administers the program for the ACF chapter. This includes recruiting, selecting students as well as record keeping. ACF chapter volunteers may teach, work in an advisory committee or help the coordinator with work site visits. Often, apprentices are enrolled in the institution's certificate/degree program; therefore the program and the apprentices are subject to the institution's policies and procedures.

Major Employer Model
A large employer administers the program for the ACF chapter through a program coordinator and personnel office. This includes recruiting, selecting students and record keeping. ACF chapter volunteers may teach or work in an advisory committee and most of them may be on staff. Some or all of the apprentices may be employed by a single company; therefore the program and the apprentices are subject to the company's policies and procedures.

Corporate Model
A corporation or a large employer administers the program without sponsorship of a local ACF chapter through a program coordinator or human resources director. This includes recruiting, selecting students and record keeping. ACF membership and certification is required for the supervising chef. Classes are online with possible guest lectures and demonstrations. ACF junior membership is with the nearest local ACF chapter or the ACF national chapter if a local chapter is not available. Since the apprentices are employees, they and the program, are subject to the company's policies and procedures.