Sessions begin with a general introduction by the Executive Chef who explains the basics of the program and introduces the roles of various culinary staff.  The program�s overall goal is then presented -- to introduce an entirely new approach to interacting with one�s team members, doing so in the completely neutral and somewhat unusual setting of a kitchen.  Participants receive culinary instructions with the objective of working skillfully and strategically together as a team to produce a certain food product.  The focus throughout is on group leadership rather than individual leaders.
 

Chaminade�s Executive Chef then divides the group into teams and sends each to its appropriate station in the kitchen where they find an example of what their finished food product should look like.  Staff pass out the �official� attire, consisting of a chef�s hat and a chef�s apron (corporate logos can be placed on the aprons with advance notice).  Participates are given a timeline for completion as well as knife safety and proper sanitation instruction.

Culinary Teambuilding Chaminade Executive Conference Center

Once the teams are at their designated stations, the Chef and assistants give a cooking demonstration involving a selected menu item.  Then the group is on its own, although Chaminade�s Executive Chef and staff are available to assist when necessary.  It�s up to the team, however, to come together, produce and present the food selection specified.  It�s not all work, though.  As fits the culinary ambiance, wine and cheese selections are enjoyed during the team building session.  Upon completion, the food item is plated or included in a group buffet and the Chaminade staff serves the culinary �masterpieces� to the team.

The Executive Chef then debriefs participants and discusses the accomplishment of  the goals and objectives expected of them.  They discuss working together as a team in a completely new capacity and setting.  The Executive Chef also encourages discussion about the evolution of team leadership in each group and its impact on the final product. 

Chaminade also offers several variations on the Culinary Team Building Program and can design sessions around specific themes or events.

Chaminade Executive Conference Center rests among the rolling hills of the Santa Cruz Mountains overlooking Monterey Bay. It features 152 newly renovated guest rooms, including four executive suites, a fitness center, lighted tennis courts and a gymnasium.