The Colorado ProStart® Student Invitational, hosted at ReelWorks in Denver last week, featured more than 150 student competitors from 20+ Colorado high schools, all vying for the chance to represent their state at the National level.

Proud parents watched and cheered from the sidelines, as the Westy team prepared a three-course meal from scratch in a timed kitchen challenge. The menu included a Mosaic Salad of melon and feta, a Seared Atlantic Salmon with citrus honey butter and a cheesecake with berry compare for dessert. The panel of industry judges made up of professional chefs and food industry experts evaluated teams based on creativity, flavor, menu costing, food safety and the all-important teamwork factor.

Management teams stepped into the role of restaurant owners, presenting comprehensive business plans that include a detailed budget, menu concept, and restaurant layout, showcasing their strategic thinking and real-world readiness.

After preparing for months, the Westy team brought home a fantastic 3rd place finish. Culinary teacher Mr. Gilroy couldn’t be happier, “I wouldn’t trade what I have gotten out of these students for anything in the world.”