Dr. Sue Carnell - Chief Deputy Superintendent | Michigan Department of Education
Alex Heugel, a graduate of St. Joseph High School and recent winner of the culinary competition "America’s Test Kitchen: Next Generation," attributes his career success to Michigan's career and technical education (CTE) program. Heugel, who will join PBS's "America’s Test Kitchen" as a cast member, reflected on the impact of his high school education.
“Technical education classes in high school played a huge role in figuring out my career path,” said Heugel. “I found getting hands-on experience during school to be informative and engaging.”
Heugel currently teaches cooking classes at The Chopping Block in Chicago. Laura Berry, a culinary arts instructor at St. Joseph High School, praised Heugel's leadership and passion for cooking science during his time as a student.
“Alex was a leader in the classroom and had the respect of his peers,” she said. “He also has a passion for the science of cooking that was as strong as it is now.”
After high school, Heugel graduated from Kendall College School of Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management. Offering advice to students considering CTE courses, he emphasized personal growth over comparison with others.
“My biggest advice to Michigan high school students would be to avoid comparing yourself to others,” Heugel said. “Every career and profession is so multi-faceted... So ultimately, keep pushing through doubt, and compare your current self to your past self, not to others.”
The Michigan Department of Education (MDE) and State Board of Education have been promoting CTE program expansion. Enrollment has rebounded post-pandemic with 112,156 students participating in the 2023-24 school year, marking a 9% increase since 2020-21.
Celena Mills, director of MDE's Office of Career and Technical Education, highlighted the benefits of CTE programs for student career development.
“Career and technical education is an important part of students’ career development... helping to connect the academic content they are learning in the classroom to their future career goals,” she said.
State Superintendent Dr. Michael F. Rice emphasized CTE's role in unlocking student potential.
“Career and Technical Education programs help our students to realize their full potential,” he said. “Mr. Alex Heugel represents the power and possibilities of these important educational options for tens of thousands of Michigan public schools students.”
CTE initiatives align with several goals in Michigan’s Top 10 Strategic Education Plan, including expanding secondary learning opportunities and increasing graduation rates.
For further information about Michigan CTE programs, visit the Office of Career and Technical Education website.
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