The Magnet Academy of Culinary Arts at Wekiva High School, is more than just a culinary program—it's a launchpad for aspiring chefs, restaurant managers and hospitality professionals. Led by Chef Christopher Bates, a seasoned restaurateur with over 25 years of industry experience, this four-year career and technical education program offers students a unique, real-world culinary education. "I wanted to develop a program unlike anything else in Central Florida," says Chef Bates. "A place where students would graduate with all the skills they needed to succeed—not just to meet standards."  

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Since its start in 2016, the program has expanded, giving students opportunities to apply their learning in a realistic setting with a bakery, full kitchen, cafe and a demo kitchen. They learn about marketing and inventory and gain real-world experience by managing a school food truck and honing their money management skills. 

Senior high school student and café manager Aubrey explains, “We learn about management, we learn about marketing, we learn about inventory and all these other behind-the-scenes things that it's not just surface-level cooking.”   

Students in the program also have the opportunity to go into the Orlando community and learn first-hand from professionals in the hospitality industry. They dive into restaurant management, marketing and inventory to gain comprehensive knowledge about the hospitality industry. 

Chef Bates explains, “One of the great privileges of living in Central Florida is that we live in a place rich with opportunity.” 

Students like David Maldonado, the academy’s sous chef, have discovered the value of community impact. "Culinary chefs have helped me grow by seeing that even in a rigorous profession, you can give back to the community," he says. 

Whether dreaming of managing international hotels or opening a local restaurant, students leave the academy equipped with the skills, confidence and passion to thrive. 

Wekiva Culinary is shaping the future of culinary talent in Central Florida. As Chef Bates puts it, "If you want high-quality preparation for the workforce, this is where you need to be."