First Start

The NJRHA & NJRREF have developed a federally approved apprenticeship program that will allow restaurants and hotels to mold career-orientated individuals into loyal chefs and managers that meet all their needs. 

The Apprenticeship Pipeline

• Current & Prospective Employees
• ProStart Students
• College Students

Apprentices can choose to become a Chef Apprentice and focus on BOH or a Restaurant Manager Apprentice with a focus on FOH. All apprentices recieve hands-on training in your restaurants and are required to supplement the training through college education.

Completion of the Program includes the following credentials:

• ServSafe® Food Handler
• ServSafe® Food Safety Manager
• ServSucess Food Service Professional
• ServSuccess Food Service Supervisor
• Unconscious Bias Training
• Sexual Harassment Training

NJRHA Gains Grant

• Covers educational expenses for apprentice
• Any additional funding is provided to employer to help with payroll costs

First Start Apprenticeship Webinars

Introducing the First Start Apprenticeship Program with the DOL Office of Apprenticeship (8.22.22)

First Start Apprenticeship Program (1.10.22)