Inspiring the Future Workforce: A Day of Interview Skills and Culinary Excellence

Today, I had the distinct privilege of being a guest speaker in Mrs. Autumn Crabtree’s Culinary Arts Culinary 3 class at Crystal River High School. This opportunity to engage with the students and share valuable insights on interview skills and job readiness was both rewarding and inspiring. The experience highlighted the exceptional caliber of our students and the remarkable environment Mrs. Crabtree has cultivated in her classroom.

As soon as I entered the culinary lab, I was greeted by the sight of students working collaboratively, honing their skills as they prepared cinnamon rolls for the following day. This bustling, yet focused atmosphere was a testament to the practical, hands-on learning that takes place in the Culinary Arts program. Beyond food preparation, these students are gaining a diverse set of skills, including knowledge of food regulations, accounting, business practices, and hospitality.It was clear that they are being well-prepared for the future, with the opportunity to earn ServSafe® industry certifications that will make them job-ready upon graduation. Our district is fortunate to offer such comprehensive culinary programs across all three high schools, as well as the Professional Culinary Arts & Hospitality program at Withlacoochee Technical College.

The classroom session focused on interview preparation and skills, a critical area for students as they approach the job market. I was thoroughly impressed by the students’ behavior throughout the session. Their eye contact, respectfulness, and attentiveness were exemplary—qualities that any potential employer would value highly. These attributes speak volumes about the positive learning environment Mrs. Crabtree has created, where students are encouraged to engage, listen, and learn actively.

During the session, we covered the essential stages of the interview process, stressing the need for thorough preparation. We discussed various interview formats and in-person vs video, emphasizing tailored strategies for each. Key points included researching the company, practicing common questions, and understanding what employers seek, such as reliability, problem-solving skills, and teamwork. We also reviewed critical interview dos and don’ts, highlighting punctuality, honesty, and professionalism while advising against negativity, lack of preparation, and casual attitudes. I shared personal experiences to illustrate the importance of preparation and learning from past challenges.

I always cherish these opportunities to connect with our students and educators. Engaging directly with the students allows me to see firsthand the incredible work being done in our schools and the bright futures being shaped. It is a privilege to contribute to their growth and readiness for the world beyond high school.

Before leaving, I was surprised and delighted by a thoughtful gesture from Mrs. Crabtree and her students. They had baked special Oreo cookies and prepared a unique “Pirate” spice blend for me to take home—a small token that reflected the warmth and creativity of the culinary program at Crystal River High School.

I extend my heartfelt thanks to Mrs. Crabtree for her passion, innovative approach, and unwavering commitment to our students, our school district, and our community. She is truly making a difference, one culinary class at a time.

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