ProStart® is a nationwide program for high school students that develops their talent into tomorrow’s restaurant and foodservice industry leaders. The Alabama Restaurant & Hospitality Association Foundation (ARHAF) hosts an annual competition for Alabama ProStart students to showcase their culinary talents and creativity. 

The ProStart program is being taught in 32 Alabama high schools! ProStart is the future of our industry! Check out this video from the 2022 Alabama ProStart Student Invitational to learn more about this exciting program and how you can get involved! ​

2026 ProStart Results

Teams comprised of hospitality and culinary students competed this week at the Alabama ProStart Student Invitational. The annual competition is hosted by the Alabama Restaurant and Hospitality Association Foundation (ARHAF). A huge thank you to Perdido Beach Resort in Orange Beach for hosting the event.

The winners of the 2026 Alabama ProStart Student Invitational are:

Culinary Competition:
1st Place - Pelham High School
2nd Place - Baldwin Preparatory Academy
3rd Place - A.H. Parker High School

Management Competition:
1st Place - Albertville High School
2nd Place - Gulf Shores High School
3rd Place - Baldwin Preparatory Academy

Wayne-Sanderson Best Chicken Entree
Gulf Shores High School

Zwilling Best Knife Skills
Pelham High School

Spirit & Teamwork Award–Culinary
Lilli B. High School

Spirit & Teamwork Award–Management
Albertville High School