Access to quality staffing continues to be one of the biggest hindrances to growth and prosperity in the Charleston region’s hospitality community.

Charleston Wine + Food aims to ignite and renew the community it celebrates, and this is a key area of focus for them.

The non-profit’s education and workforce development initiatives educate and train individuals to meet the needs of the current and future culinary industry. Talent is critically important to ensuring asustainable, competitive economic environment for the residents of the greater Charleston community.

“Our focus is always to support the community that supports us,” says Alyssa Maute Smith, Executive Director. “When the industry tells us they need more skilled hands on deck, we make it our mission to help supply them. Charleston’s halo glows largely because of our hospitality community, and we want to help fuel their success.”

Launched in 2023, the Culinary High School Scholars Enrichment Program is already poised for serious expansion. The paid, work-based learning programs gives on-the-ground training, creates connections, and demonstrates the potential of careers in hospitality. 

Entering the 2024 Festival, the program continues to bear fruit: The day this year’s CCSD externships opened, every shift was snapped up within the first 2 hours. Additional teacher/mentors throughout the district requested opportunities for their students (shifts are limited to funding available to compensate the students.)

One of the 2023 student externs was so enamored of their experience, they requested an opportunity to work again the Culinary Village prep kitchen. And the on-site chefs gratefully accepted.

Meanwhile, College of Charleston and Trident Technical College students annually work as interns and seasonal team members, gaining real-world experience and knowledge. We encourage students to continue their careers here in the Charleston area, where we need an appreciate their talents.

The Festival funds Culinary + Hospitality Scholarships at area colleges, and also harnesses a College of Charleston Capstone Class to create marketing programs the Festival uses in real-time.