The American Culinary Federation (ACF) is the largest professional chefs’ organization in North America and is the industry leader in offering educational resources, training, apprenticeship, competitions, and programmatic accreditation designed to enhance professional growth for all levels, from student to seasoned professional.
ACF certification is the only culinary certification program with stackable credentials and is recognized throughout the industry as the standard of excellence in professional skills. ACF offers 15 levels of certification, from entry-level with no work experience to master level, for savory and pastry chefs, as well as educators. Culinary knowledge and practical skills are validated through written and practical assessments, making certificants a more valuable candidate for hiring and promotions.
ACF partners with NOCTI on the Culinary Arts Cook and Retail Commercial Baking assessments which qualifies successful completers for the ACF Certified Fundamental Cook (CFC) and/or ACF Certificated Fundamental Pastry Cook (CFPC) credential, the first step on a ladder of credentials recognized by the Department of Labor. Additionally, ACF is working with NOCTI on a new initiative to develop micro-credentials in culinary and hospitality that lead to the CFC/CFPC credential.