Shape the Future of Hospitality: Join the 2026 SC ProStart Invitational

Invest in Our Industry’s Greatest Asset: The Next Generation

The South Carolina ProStart program is more than a curriculum; it is the bridge between the classroom and the professional kitchen. By uniting industry expertise with high school education, we ensure that students graduate not just with diplomas, but with the grit, teamwork, and technical precision required to lead our industry. Industry involvement is the heartbeat of ProStart—your presence provides the real-world validation that transforms a student’s passion into a lifelong career. When the industry shows up, our future leaders rise to the occasion.

       

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Why Become a Judge or Volunteer?

We are looking for seasoned professionals, educators, and hospitality enthusiasts to help us crown the next state champions. This is your chance to give back, network with peers, and get a first look at the top talent entering the workforce.

• Be a Talent Scout: Witness firsthand the skills of South Carolina's brightest culinary and management students.

• Mentor Through Evaluation: Your feedback helps students refine their techniques and professional mindset.

• Celebrate Excellence: Help reward the hard work of students competing for thousands of dollars in scholarships.

• Strengthen Your Community: Join a network of like-minded professionals dedicated to the growth of South Carolina’s hospitality landscape.

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Roles & Opportunities

Culinary Judges

Evaluate teams as they prepare a three-course meal in just 60 minutes using only two butane burners. We need experts in:

• Technical Knife Skills & Fabrication
• Food Safety and Sanitation
• Flavor Profiles and Presentation
• Leadership and Teamwork
• Tasting and Finished Product
• Menu and Recipe Design

Management Judges

Watch as "future owners" pitch original restaurant concepts to a panel of experts. We need professionals with experience in:

• Concept Development and Branding
• Menu Costing and Engineering
• Marketing and Social Media Strategy
• Critical Thinking and Operations

Event Volunteers

Not an industry expert, or want to be a part of the program? You can still make an impact! We need energetic volunteers to help with:

• Team Check-in and Orientation
• Floor Management and Operations
• Team Coordination
• Timekeeping and Scoring Support

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Event Details

• Date: March 1-3, 2026 
  • Sunday afternoon - Judges and Volunteer Training
  • Monday - Competition Day
  • Tuesday morning - Awards Ceremony 
    

• Location:  Embassy Suites Greenville Golf Resort 
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• Reservations:$139.00++ SCRLA ProStart Invitational or call 1-800-EMBASSY Group Code 96D 

• Perks: All judges and volunteers receive complimentary meals, exclusive event swag, and an invitation to our opening reception and awards ceremony.

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Ready to Make a Difference?

Complete the form below to register your interest. A member of the SCRLA team will follow up with specific assignments and schedules. Learn more about the ProStart Program