Naval Station Great Lakes in Great Lakes, IL recently hosted the twelfth annual Commander Navy Installations Command (CNIC) culinary competition, a highly anticipated event in the culinary world. The event, which took place over five days in June 2023, brought together nine talented teams from Navy Galleys Ashore, across the U.S. and overseas, all vying for the coveted title and an exclusive prize. The Goodwill Great Lakes team is the only civilian team that competed.
For the eighth year, Naval Station Great Lakes served as the backdrop of this exciting culinary arts competition. Teams faced off in a thrilling showdown, showcasing their skills, creativity, and passion for the culinary arts. Each team was assigned their own workstation, where they had 2.5 hours to prepare a delectable two-course menu. The pressure was on as they aimed to impress a distinguished panel of chef judges, including tasting judges: Derek Small, Dennis Gavagan and Eric Johnson and floor judges: Kyle Richardson, Paul Wacker and Anthony Miniscalco, with their culinary masterpieces.
Adding an element of challenge, each team was provided a market basket containing a carefully curated assortment of ingredients which had to be incorporated into at least one of the two dishes, pushing chefs to think on their feet and exhibit their adaptability. To enhance their creations, teams had access to a shared kitchen, wide array of spices, and a pantry stocked with an assortment of ingredients.
The final competition, while the pinnacle of the event, was just a glimpse into all that took place over the week. Prior to the final competition, teams had the opportunity to take part in a four-day workshop, which included various team-building exercises, mock competitions and an exciting first-time look at Rational’s test kitchens. This workshop served as a valuable learning experience, enabling the participants to hone their skills, exchange ideas and embrace the spirit of friendly competition.
The competition provided a unique platform for aspiring chefs to immerse themselves in the world of culinary arts, gaining invaluable insights and experiences along the way. It offered a rare chance for competitors to learn from seasoned professionals, pushing themselves to new heights and perfecting their craft.
“The opportunity to bring U.S. Navy Ashore culinary specialists from around the world to Great Lakes for five days of training networking and the annual competition is inspiring. We are fortunate to have great culinary leaders and educators with decades of experience volunteer their time to make this an incredible experience for the culinary specialists.”
- Eric Anderson, executive chef and event coordinator, Goodwill Great Lakes
As the competition came to a close, the atmosphere was filled with anticipation and excitement. The judges had the difficult task of selecting a winner from the exceptional pool of talent on display. Ultimately, one team emerged victorious, earning the prestigious title. However, every participant left the competition with newfound knowledge, unforgettable memories, and the satisfaction of having competed at an exceptional level.
“It was incredible to see our Goodwill civilian team competing against the best U.S. Navy and Air Force culinary teams from around the world. I witnessed all the teams have a relentless pursuit of excellence through the week of training and during the competition. We are honored to work alongside the U.S. Navy daily and this competition was an amazing opportunity for our chefs to gain skills and engage at a high level.”
- Kent Walters, senior vice president, Goodwill Great Lakes
This year’s competition was a resounding success – showcasing the dedication, creativity, and passion of the U.S. Navy and Air Force culinary professionals while providing them with a platform to grow and excel in their chosen field. Undoubtedly, the event will continue to inspire and nurture the next generation and beyond.
Here’s what our Goodwill Great Lakes team loved most about the competition:
“I loved when all the teams learned something that they didn’t know about.”
- Anna Daniels, VIP coordinator and team coach, Goodwill Great Lakes
“It being my first time participating in the CNIC competition I found the chefs to be very understanding and ready to pour out their knowledge. All chefs were very friendly and supportive.” - Chantal Zadi Vaoua, team member, Goodwill Great Lakes
“I really loved the trip to the Rational company for a first-time look at their new test kitchens.” - Davonda Hicks, team member, Goodwill Great Lakes
“CNIC is a venue for aspiring cooks like me to become chefs and have a wonderful opportunity to be trained by culinary experts that I can share within the community.” - Dey Caesar Yanos, team member, Goodwill Great Lakes
Partnering at Naval Station Great Lakes for Over 25 Years
Goodwill Great Lakes provides food, administrative and logistical services for U.S. Navy Sailors and Recruits at Naval Station Great Lakes, the U.S. Navy’s only boot camp. For over 25 years, the U.S. Navy, Goodwill, and SourceAmerica have partnered at Naval Station Great Lakes through the AbilityOne Program, providing employment opportunities for individuals with and without significant disabilities. Learn more about Goodwill Great Lakes.
