Mentorship, Leadership & the Future of Hospitality
Rooted Stories shares the people, places, and passions behind our regional food community. In this conversation, Chef Clem Tamasang of the Bavarian Inn discusses why mentorship is an essential ingredient in the future of hospitality and how internships help prepare young chefs for meaningful careers.
What do you hope culinary interns gain beyond cooking skills?
Beyond cooking skills, I hope all culinary interns get awareness of day-to-day services & service. Cooking skills are a vital fundamental skill for all culinary students. That can always be improved through day-to-day operations, operations. But understanding of restaurant operations especially during peak service allows interns to see the future of the industry.
Why is mentoring the next generation so important for the hospitality industry?
The importance of hospitality establishments to invest in the next generation will help future hospitality workers to be more aware, receive insight in mental strength. There’s a lot of variables in the hospitality industry, but I believe interns can be guided to a more all around future.
How can students help strengthen our local food economy early in their careers?
Students and interns can begin to understand the logistics of culinary ingredients and sourcing. Local farms are amazing, some hospitality establishments can continuously operate on local ingredients. Some establishments require purveyors for sourcing. Students and interns can begin to understand & be more involved in local farms early to be a guide in understand which products are local that can be intertwined with menu development & seasonal ingredients.
What has Grace brought to your kitchen that reminds you why mentorship matters?
Grace has been an incredible pillar in adaptation and perseverance. Since her first day her calm demeanor and constant attention to detail has been applauded by my entire staff. I have admired her strong will to continuously give as much as she can to our kitchen structure. She’s become the golden standard.
