- Hands-On Learning Experience: Selected participants will take part in three immersive learning modules with Hormel Foods Foodservice team members in April 2027 (Napa Valley, California), October 2027 (San Antonio, Texas) and April 2028 (New York City).
- Application Requirements: Through Nov. 30, applicants with more than 10 years of professional culinary experience, proven culinary and leadership skills, and a long-term commitment to the industry are encouraged to apply at www.ceipinfo.com.
- An Investment in Culinary Leaders of Tomorrow: To help foster the culinary leaders of tomorrow, the Hormel Foods Foodservice team has underwritten the cost of program development and the tuition of this unique program.
Hormel Foods Corporation (NYSE: HRL), a Fortune 500 global branded food company, today announced that applications are now open for the National Culinary Enrichment and Innovation Program (CEIP) class of 2028, a rigorous leadership development experience designed for accomplished culinary professionals. Launched in partnership with the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in 2008, CEIP is the only culinary program to provide advanced culinary leadership training and enrichment specifically created for commercial and non-commercial chefs.
Program Selection
The year-long leadership program selects a cohort of 20 accomplished foodservice chefs for three immersive learning modules held at CIA facilities in Napa Valley, California; San Antonio, Texas; and New York.
“The future of foodservice depends on strong culinary leaders who can inspire teams, drive innovation and adapt to a rapidly evolving industry,” said Annemarie Vaupel, vice president of foodservice marketing at Hormel Foods. “Through CEIP, we’re investing in experienced chefs who are committed to advancing their craft and elevating the profession. We’re proud to partner with the Culinary Institute of America to help develop the next generation of industry leaders.”
The program brings together chefs from across the industry to learn from each other and build relationships with the CIA and Hormel Foods Foodservice teams. To continue to showcase their investment, the program’s tuition is underwritten by Hormel Foods, underscoring the company’s commitment to developing the next generation of culinary leaders.
Culinary professionals with more than 10 years of experience, proven culinary and leadership skills, and long-term commitment to the industry are encouraged to apply from now until Nov. 30 at www.ceipinfo.com.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When do CEIP applications open?
Applications for the CEIP class of 2028 are open now through Nov. 30, 2026 at www.ceipinfo.com.
What qualifications and/or prerequisites must be met to apply?
Chefs interested in applying for CEIP must meet the following requirements:
- 10+ years professional culinary experience
- Proven culinary and leadership skills
- Highly creative and innovative
- Long-term commitment to the industry
Prerequisites:
- There are no academic prerequisites
- College degree and/or past schooling in, or certification from, a culinary institution is not required for acceptance
- This is, however, a fast-paced, interactive learning environment requiring participation among other professionals.
How long is CEIP?
The Culinary Enrichment and Innovation Program occurs over a 12-month period at the CIA campuses. Participants are required to attend each module in order to receive the CIA certificate of completion and the continuing education units at the conclusion of the program.
CEIP Class of 2028 – Program Dates:
- Module I: Napa Valley, CA, April 5–8, 2027
- Module II: San Antonio, TX, Oct. 2027 TBA
- Module III: Hyde Park, NY, April 2028 TBA
What is the total cost of CEIP?
Hormel Foods underwrites all tuition fees and meals for the length of the program. All additional costs connected to attending CEIP will be the responsibility of the participants. These costs will include, but are not limited to:
- Transportation to and from The Culinary Institute of America locations
- Lodging
- Personal expenses
