The Perfect Recipe for Success
Pima Culinary Student Plans to Whip Up a Solid Career as a Professional Chef
A beautiful dish bursting with color and flavor is on the menu for first-year Pima Community College culinary student, Hannah Puckett. Despite no culinary experience, she was impressed on her first day, whipping up a savory Hawaiian chicken dish that would tempt any taste bud.
"We sautéed bell peppers, spinach, onions, and asparagus, and added brown sugar. And the chicken was so good! The sauce was super sweet, and we even put a pineapple on top," Puckett described.
Pima's award winning culinary program recently unveiled its newly renovated facilities for students. The program faculty and staff take their reputation seriously considering Tucson's recognition as a top city for gastronomy.
Finding the right path through her college career proved challenging for Puckett.
“I want them to reach their full potential, whether at country clubs, cruise ships, vacation spots, or spas, where they can truly showcase their talent.”
"I really struggled with choosing a direction," she admitted. "I was in art school, but cooking offers a more promising career path, and it's a valuable life skill too," Puckett said while proudly sporting her brand-new chef coat and hat.
Beorn Hockenhull, Puckett's instructor, embarked on his debut at Pima, aiming to take her and his other students to levels they never imagined.
"I want them to reach their full potential, whether at country clubs, cruise ships, vacation spots, or spas, where they can truly showcase their talent," Hockenhull expressed.
Puckett said Hockenhull offered her valuable advice to heed while on her journey to becoming a world-class chef: "You have to be patient with yourself and your peers, for sure."
Whip up something delicious!
If you're interested in a career as a professional chef or the hospitality industry, visit Pima's Hospitality program for more information.