Program Overview

Food Hero’s Food Truck Entrepreneur Apprenticeship Program is a paid, hands-on workforce training program that prepares participants for food truck ownership and careers across the food service industry. Food trucks serve as mobile classrooms where apprentices earn while they learn through real-world experience.

Who This Program Is For:

- Aspring food truck owners

- Veterans transitioning to civilian careers

- Career changers seeking purpose-driven work

- Individuals facing economic barriers

- Community members passionate about food and entrepreneurship

What Participants Learn

Culinary Training: Food safety (ServSafe Manager), knife skills, cooking techniques, high-volume mobile kitchen operations.

Business & Entrepreneurship: Food truck operations, budgeting, pricing, marketing, branding, permits.

Professional Skills: Communication, teamwork, customer service, leadership, resilience.

Where & When

Location: Food Hero facilities, active food trucks, and community partner sites

Duration: 12–24 months (full-time or part-time options)

Total Hours: 2,700 (200 classroom + 2,500 paid on-the-job training)

Credentials Earned

- U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Certificate

- ServSafe Manager Certification

- Complete, lender-ready business plan

- Individuals facing economic barriers

- Paid, documented work experience

Why Food Hero

Food Hero created this program to expand access to paid workforce training, create pathways to business ownership and stable employment, and strengthen local food economies through food-centered careers.

How the Program Works

1. Apply and enroll
2. Learn culinary and business foundations
3. Earn while you learn through paid food truck work
4. Build a business plan or prepare for employment
5. Graduate with credentials and ongoing support