Gov McKee CCRI Launch New Culinary Degree Program in Newport

March 16, 2025 | Cooking techniques

The Need for a Culinary and Hospitality Hub

The demand for skilled culinary professionals in Rhode Island is on the rise, driven by the state’s thriving tourism industry and the increasing popularity of local food and drink. With the tourism industry accounting for a significant portion of the state’s economy, there is a growing need for workers who can provide exceptional customer service, manage restaurants, and prepare high-quality food and beverages. • The tourism industry in Rhode Island is expected to continue growing, with the state’s visitor numbers increasing by 10% in 2020 compared to the previous year.

CCRI’s program is designed to be flexible and accommodating to students with varying schedules and needs.

Line cook

Sous chef

Executive chef

Restaurant manager

Catering manager

Flexibility and Accommodation

CCRI’s program is designed to be flexible and accommodating to students with varying schedules and needs.

This partnership has enabled CCRI to expand its programs and services, including the launch of new degree programs and the enhancement of existing ones.

CCRI has also partnered with the Rhode Island Department of Education to provide career and technical education (CTE) programs to students.

The college has collaborated with the Rhode Island Small Business Development Center (RISBDC) to offer business training and resources to entrepreneurs.

CCRI has partnered with the United Way of Rhode Island to provide financial literacy and job readiness training to low-income families.Expansion of Programs and Services

The partnership with Bally’s Corporation has enabled CCRI to expand its programs and services, including the launch of new degree programs and the enhancement of existing ones.