#009 - Chef Cody Hayes, Culinary Arts Chef Instructor, Dr. Gene Burton College
With a Bachelor of Science degree in Restaurant, Hotel, and Institutional Management from Texas Tech University, and over 18 years of professional experience in the hospitality industry, Chef Cody Hayes is no stranger to the world of Culinary Arts. Chef Hayes began his professional career working in various positions within the restaurant and hospitality industry such as Banquet and Event Manager and Front Desk Manager for the Holiday Inn Corporation; and moving into the restaurant industry as the Culinary Manager, Beverage and Hospitality Manager, and Regional Training Director for Red Lobster with the Darden Corporation; and Director of Operations for a privately owned Beverage and Tea Company. In 2006, Chef Hayes started the Culinary Arts Program at Rockwall High School. Since it's start, Chef Hayes has evolved this activity-driven course into a renowned and nationally recognized program. The program is now housed at the Dr. Gene Burton College & Career Academy in a state-of-the-art facility, complete with two teaching culinary classrooms, a teaching kitchen, and the Crave Cafe restaurant. They have been recognized as the North Texas Iron Chef Champions, won the state championship title with the Texas ProStart Program five times, and won the National ProStart Competition twice. Chef Hayes resides in Fate, Texas with his wife, Amy, and their son, Ryker who attends Rockwall High School and the Dr. Gene Burton College & Career Academy. Amy and Chef Hayes also own SweetFace Sugar Shoppe & Bakery located in Royse City.