The Benefits of Getting Your Culinary Degree After Military Service

For 22 years, Sergeant First Class Justin Strickland served in the United States Army. This retired disabled combat Veteran first served in the Iraq War through Operation Iraqi Freedom. Today he is completing his second semester at Louisiana Culinary Institute in the savory program.

Four years ago, Justin retired from the United States Army. Around that time, his family opened a restaurant in Walker, Louisiana. While helping his Mom in the restaurant, he realized, “this may be my calling,” says Strickland. He had long been dubbed the “Grill Master” at family cookouts and barbecues. With a passion for grilling steaks and smoking meats, making himself at home in the kitchen, creating new dishes seemed like a natural and enjoyable transition.

“Justin is always in class on time with his fun sense of humor. He works well with his fellow students and is always looking to help. He keeps a high grade point average by timely assignment submissions and good lab work. He displays a true appreciation for learning,” says Chef Instructor, Chris Nicosia.

Having never worked in the culinary industry until recently with his family’s restaurant, experiencing everything with a new perspective has been enlightening for Strickland. “I’ve gained a lot of insight on how to operate in the industry. I really enjoy the business aspects that are being taught along with the ‘culinary style math”. “Learning how to blend and use new and different combinations has been very interesting. I’ve been to Germany and Korea, and I’m excited to use those experiences to continue building on new tastes and blends,” says Justin.

Justin has big plans once he completes his advanced culinary arts degree. The first part includes buying a food truck and creating and selling meat pies. “Different cultures across the world have their own take on food based around pies and crusts. I’ve been all over the world, and I look forward to offering different types of meat pies”. Justin also has one year to complete to earn his degree at Louisiana State University. Once this is done, he’ll begin on the second phase of his business, which for now will remain a mystery that everyone is excited to see!