William H. Bender Trains High School Students in Job Readiness Skills
News related to:W.H. Bender & Associates · 1 min read
SAN JOSE, Calif., Oct. 28, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- On October 27th, foodservice and restaurant consultant William H. Bender, FCSI, delivered a valuable lesson to aspiring hospitality leaders at North Salinas High School as part of the California Restaurant Foundation's annual Force-In Training (FIT)™ Program. This event, which was presented at 150 high schools across the state, aimed to equip students with essential job readiness skills.
The FIT™ Day program, a key component of the ProStart® curriculum, focuses on preparing students for the hospitality industry. ProStart® is a two-year high school program that combines classroom instruction with hands-on training. Rosana Diaz, the culinary educator at North Salinas High School, oversees the program for 70 students enrolled in Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management classes.
Bender, a seasoned industry veteran and former CRF board member, emphasized the importance of sharing his experiences with the next generation.
The FIT™ Day event included a range of skills training sessions, such as first impressions, handshakes, personal highlight reels, and mock interviewing techniques. These exercises were designed to help students develop the professional demeanor and communication skills necessary for success in the hospitality industry.
According to Natalie Tong, the CRF Director of Events, the programs like FIT™ Day bridge the gap between education and employment, creating economic mobility for thousands of students.
The California Restaurant Foundation, through its Restaurants Care® program, manages various initiatives, including scholarships and competitions. The ProStart® program, which includes FIT™ Day, plays a crucial role in preparing students for careers in the hospitality sector.
Bender's participation in the FIT™ Day event underscores the importance of mentorship and community engagement.
In conclusion, the annual FIT™ Day event, organized by the California Restaurant Foundation, continues to make a significant impact on high school students aspiring to enter the hospitality industry. Through the efforts of industry professionals like William H. Bender, the program ensures that the next generation of leaders is well-prepared for their future careers.