In North Charleston, the annual Charleston Wine + Food Festival is already in preparation for its upcoming event, despite being more than half a year away. A notable aspect of this festival's planning involves students from Fort Dorchester High School’s culinary program. These students are given an opportunity to work alongside world-renowned chefs, gaining invaluable experience in a professional kitchen setting. The collaboration between the festival and the high school has been ongoing for two years, offering students a unique platform to develop their skills and realize their potential.

Chef Darrel Shepherd, the Advanced Culinary Instructor at Fort Dorchester High School, describes the kitchen environment during preparations as "controlled chaos." This reflects the scale of operations required to cater to thousands of festival attendees. Angell Troxler, the Talent Coordinator for Charleston Wine + Food Festival, highlights that culinary students can sign up for shifts and actively participate in the festival's kitchens. Through these interactions with top chefs, students receive hands-on training and exposure to the culinary world.

Previous participants have expressed how transformative the experience has been. Senior Ellis Parker recounts working alongside a 'Chopped' champion, an encounter they had never anticipated. Such experiences underscore the festival's role in inspiring young talent. Chef Shepherd shares a poignant moment when a student realized their passion for cooking, marking it as one of the most fulfilling achievements in his career.

This initiative not only benefits the students but also enriches the festival by incorporating fresh, enthusiastic talent into its events. The Charleston Wine + Food Festival is set to take place in March 2026, promising another memorable edition filled with gastronomic delights and educational opportunities.

The partnership between Fort Dorchester High School and the Charleston Wine + Food Festival serves as a testament to the power of experiential learning. By immersing students in real-world scenarios, the program equips them with essential skills and confidence. As the festival approaches, both organizers and participants eagerly anticipate another successful collaboration, where education meets celebration in the vibrant culinary scene of Charleston.