Program links high school students with careers in hospitality

Orlando Murphy, 18, took advantage of that program two years ago at Cary High School. That’s when he began a paid apprenticeship in Rocky Top Catering’s kitchen in Raleigh.

"I’ve been working for Rocky Top ever since I was 16, so going on about 2 years I’ve been here," said Murphy.

The national program is present in 50 high schools across the state in the form of tours as well as in-class and on-the-job training. Murphy is thankful he got an early start. He said, "I’m able to get experience that other people my age would not get. "

His job involves handling many catering and delivery orders. The program involves more than just learning how to cook, says Lynn Minges, president and CEO of the North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association.

She said, "It teaches them how to run the restaurant, how to offer hospitality. It teaches customer service skills, professionalism, time management."

Those are skills that can be used in any profession students may choose beyond their apprenticeship and high school graduation.

When students sign up, they have to complete 200 hours as a paid intern at a restaurant, catering business or hotel. Many use the credit as a head start in a community college program.

Once Orlando finished the requirement, Rocky Top Catering’s owner Dean Ogan hired him.

"It’s been something that’s been so awesome. He’s found something he’s really passionate about that he see that could be a career for him," said Ogan.

The work is often fast-paced, especially on weekends. "It’s 10 to 15 events every single Saturday," Orlando said.

It’s an environment he now thrives in.

"Orlando is, you know, definitely the shining example of how awesome this program can work," he said.