Students from the Allegan Tech Center showcased their culinary talents at the Michigan Hospitality Foundation ProStart State Culinary Competition on March 10th and 11th in Battle Creek. Competing against teams from across the state, Allegan students demonstrated exceptional skill, creativity, and composure under pressure.
The competition tested students' abilities to perform under real-world conditions, with just one hour to prepare their dishes while being closely observed by judges. The judges not only evaluated their cooking techniques but also asked detailed questions about their processes, ingredients, and the reasoning behind their choices. Despite the intensity, Allegan Tech Center students represented their school with professionalism and confidence.
The Allegan Tech Center students competed in several categories, including two Culinary teams, two Management teams, five Pasta teams, three Cake Decorating teams, and nine individuals in the Knife Cuts competition.
Among the standout performances was the culinary team featuring Landon Fance Coulson (Allegan), Cole Milbocker (Allegan), and Noah Sauceda (Fennville). Their remarkable dish, Squid Ink Pasta with Baby Octopus in a Spicy Amatriciana Sauce, captured the judges' attention and earned them well-deserved recognition and fifth place in the pasta competition.
Instructor Andrea Dulac expressed her pride in all her students, emphasizing the dedication and skill they brought to the competition. "Overall, I would say that all my students performed well," Dulac shared. "They handled themselves with grace and maturity and truly impressed me. With the skills they demonstrated in competition, I am confident that they will have success in whatever career they choose."
The Allegan Tech Center’s strong presence at the competition reflects the hard work and dedication of its students and instructors. Each participant’s commitment to precision, creativity, and teamwork showcased the outstanding culinary program at the Tech Center.
For more information about the competition, visit the Michigan Hospitality Foundation ProStart Invitational.