Southwest Technical College (Southwest Tech) announced a $10,000 donation received from Rocky Mountain Power Foundation. This grant will help fund the expansion of the College’s new Culinary Arts Program at their main campus in Cedar City, Utah. Southwest Tech’s main campus, located directly South of Cedar High School, was completed earlier this year and includes a state-of-the-art culinary facility.

Tom Heaton, the Regional Business Manager of Rocky Mountain Power, stated, “We are excited to support Southwest Tech in their mission and this beautiful new building here in Cedar City. The Rocky Mountain Power Foundation is proud to support the educational aspirations of many students who will receive industry specific training in many areas here in this highly functional teaching facility.”

“The Rocky Mountain Power Foundation has been very active here in Cedar City and in Iron and Washington Counties and will continue to be in the future. We enjoy being involved in the communities that we serve and in partnering with quality organizations such as Southwest Tech”.

Brennan Wood, President of Southwest Tech expressed, “We are so appreciative of Rocky Mountain Power’s generous donation to the College and in helping us advance our Culinary Program. It not only provides a lift in our ability to provide this valuable training, but has a great impact on lifting the overall job skills that are needed in our community.”

The Culinary Arts Program will be guided by Drew Nehrenz, who has over 13 years of culinary arts experience. “I’m very excited to be a part of this new program at Southwest Technical College,” said Nehrenz. “There is absolutely nothing like this facility in our area and we are so fortunate to be able to offer this type of hands-on training. I can’t wait to get started.”

The Culinary Arts Program will officially kick-off their classes in August. Examples of classes being taught include:

  • Professional Cuisine,
  • Culinary Technique,
  • Culinary Artistry,
  • Flavor Essentials,
  • Kitchen and Equipment Safety,
  • Baking and Pastry,
  • and much more.