SMUD and American River College Empower the Next Generation of Culinary Chefs with Energy-Efficient Induction Cooking

SMUD and American River College Empower the Next Generation of Culinary Chefs with Energy-Efficient Induction Cooking

SACRAMENTO, Calif. - SMUD is proud to partner with American River College's culinary arts program to empower students across the region to build skills for careers in the culinary arts - all while advancing our commitment to a cleaner, carbon-neutral future.

On Friday, Nov. 14, nearly one hundred high school students from across the region will gather at Evangelisti Culinary Arts Center at American River College to learn firsthand from a professional chef about the benefits of cooking with energy-efficient induction stove tops.

WHAT: Students learn about benefits of induction cooking
WHEN: Friday, Nov. 14 (media availability from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.)
WHERE: Evangelisti Culinary Arts Center at American River College, 4700 College Oak Dr., Sacramento 95841
WHO: Nearly 100 high school students, SMUD Board VP Dave Tamayo, American River College

This hands-on session highlights how adopting innovative cooking technology and utilizing resources from American River College supports SMUD's 2030 Carbon Goal by reducing energy consumption and emissions, while also equipping individuals for careers in the culinary arts.

About SMUD

As the nation's sixth-largest, community-owned, not-for-profit electric service provider, SMUD has been providing low-cost, reliable electricity to Sacramento County for more than 75 years. SMUD is a recognized industry leader for its innovative energy efficiency programs, renewable power technologies and for its sustainable solutions for a healthier environment. In 2024, SMUD's power supply was about 62% carbon free, which is largely influenced by the weather and amount of hydroelectricity produced. SMUD's goal is to completely eliminate carbon in its electricity production by 2030 while maintaining reliability and keeping rates among the lowest in California - on average, 50% lower than its neighboring, investor-owned utility.

About American River College Culinary Arts Program

American River College is among the most respected culinary arts programs in northern California. The program emphasizes business theory and hands on cooking. Classes focus on job skills and professional fine dining cuisine. The program can be completed in 18 months, including a semester working in the kitchen of The Oak Café, the college's 4-star restaurant. Students also have the opportunity to work in an on-campus retail bakery.