Shane began his culinary career more than 20 years ago while still in high school and subsequently enrolled in the apprenticeship program with a Thunder Bay hotel. Immediately after completion of his training, he entered the Taste of Canada competition, and earned a silver medal. After successfully writing his journeyman cook’s papers, Shane travelled to Toronto and worked in a number of varied and eclectic restaurants including Le Paradis, the Law Society of Upper Canada, and Janet Lynn’s Bistro in Waterloo. Shane accepted a job offer as Pastry Chef at the Valhalla Inn and returned to Thunder Bay in 1992. In 1995 he helped open the Good News Cafe which grew to be Thunder Bay’s premiere caterer. During this period Shane also found time to successfully write his Patissier papers and hone his teaching skills with a variety of private cooking classes. Shane now teaches food theory and baking in the Cook Apprenticeship and Culinary Management Programs and he is happy to share his varied experience and accumulated knowledge with Thunder Bay’s future chefs.
How/Why Did You Become a Teacher?:
I have always enjoyed training staff. After many years as a chef I was asked to teach at Confederation College and I have enjoyed every minute since.
What Do You Like Most About Teaching?:
I love the look on students' faces when they take a tray of danishes or a hot chocolate souffle out of the oven ... surprise, wonder and pride!
Your Educational Background & Qualifications:
I have worked in the industry since I was 16. I was offered an apprenticeship which I completed in Toronto after my second stage of school. I obtained my Journeyman cook papers with my interprovincial red seal and subsequently worked for 15 years before working towards my Cook-Patissiere papers ... so I am a Chef, as well as Pastry Chef!
Your Relevant Experience in the Field:
I have worked in the culinary side of the hospitality industry for the past 36 years both on the cooking side as well as the pastry side.
Your Hobbies & Other Interests:
I love the outdoors, camping, canoeing and snowshoeing. I also love music, food and gardening.
What insight, or words of advice would you have regarding your program?:
Jump right in! Don't be nervous! Have fun!
What insight, or words of advice would you have regarding career opportunities in this field of study?:
In this era, chefs are stars! With a little hard work there are no limits to your career!