Scotsman Ice Systems unveiled three new ice machines at the Academy of Culinary Arts at Land O’ Lakes High School. The academy, which serves the Land O’ Lakes, Florida, community, received a joint donation from Scotsman, United Refrigeration, and Bayshore Equipment of three ice machines, including the corresponding bins and water filtration systems.
Land O’ Lakes High School celebrated the grand opening of the Academy of Culinary Arts with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Oct. 5.
“By donating several different types of ice machines to the facility, students will learn the benefits and uses of cube, flake, and nugget ice,” says Denis Griesmer, vice president sales and marketing, Scotsman Ice Systems. “We are proud to contribute equipment to the Academy of Culinary Arts program, which will prepare high school students for a wide range of employment and education opportunities.”
The state-of-the-art culinary arts facility includes three training kitchens and a theater-style 60-seat classroom with a fully functional demonstration station and video technology. Students are expected to learn food fundamentals and skills in every aspect of the culinary arts and restaurant management, from preparing meals using ServSafe practices to creating ice sculptures. The academy emphasizes natural, sustainable cuisine and local agriculture, and features herb and vegetable gardens that students cultivate.
The curriculum features the Florida ProStart Certificate of Achievement, and students have the opportunity to earn ServSafe Food Safety certificates, American Culinary Federation certifications, and post-secondary articulation. Higher education partners include Johnson and Wales University and the International Culinary School at the Art Institute of Tampa.