Spring 2020
Q & A with Chef Ace Champion
The 2012 Culinary grad discusses the rewards of an FVTC education.
IN PHOTO: Chef Ace Champion with Today Show hosts Carson Daly (left) and Al Roker
What brought you to FVTC?
I had moved to Wisconsin from Louisiana and worked as a meat cutter and chef at local restaurants for seven years. During that time I realized a college degree would expand my skills and industry knowledge. Some friends told me that Fox Valley Tech is one of the best culinary schools, so I enrolled without hesitation.
What made your culinary education at FVTC special?
Hands-on practice with the freedom to choose a cuisine to specialize in made learning at Fox Valley Tech rewarding. The instructors focused on helping me refine Creole recipes and taught me about the business side of the profession.
Describe your business.
My services are broad. I’m a private chef, culinary instructor, recipe developer, voice over talent and host of my own cooking show, “Cook Like A. Champion.” I’m also a motivational speaker who integrates cultural elements into my dishes, in addition to carrying a product line consisting of coffee, wine, spices, apparel and other merchandise.
Discuss your prestigious invite to New York City.
NBC invited me to be on its Today Show in September of 2019 to represent Wisconsin in a cook-off against a Chicago chef before a national audience. The event energized the kickoff to the NFL season and its 100-year anniversary with a Packers vs. Bears friendly tailgate competition. It was like a dream come true.
Not Just Any Culinary Program
- Faculty recognized for exceptional instruction from both the Wisconsin Restaurant Association and American Culinary Federation
- Students won national championship at the American Culinary Federation National Convention in 2018—a first for any Wisconsin college or university
