Joseph Bailey is a senior from Cony High School and a standout student in the Culinary Arts program. He values the opportunity the program has given him to meet new people and consistently describes his instructors as “amazing.” Joseph especially enjoys the hands-on nature of the class, noting that it makes learning both engaging and fun. He has also thrived in competitive settings, which have become a meaningful part of his experience.
Joseph has earned impressive success through ProStart competitions. He was a member of the Maine ProStart Management Team competition-winning team, which advanced to the National ProStart Management Team Competition in Baltimore, Maryland. His team also captured a win in a national video contest for their food truck concept. As a result, Joseph will travel to Chicago later this month, where his team’s food truck design will be brought to life and showcased at the National Restaurant Association Show. In addition, Joseph earned a gold medal in Restaurant Service at the State of Maine SkillsUSA competition and will represent Maine at the SkillsUSA National Competition in Atlanta, Georgia, this June.
Joseph shares that these competitive experiences have pushed him well outside his comfort zone—with tremendous rewards. Prior to participating in these events, he had never flown on an airplane, making the opportunities even more impactful.
Outside of the Culinary Arts program, Joseph is actively involved in both the Spanish Club and Debate Club at Cony High School. He works at Cushnoc Brewing Company and will also be employed this summer with the Augusta School Department’s custodial team. This fall, Joseph will attend the University of Maine, where he plans to study business with the goal of becoming a nutritionist.
Culinary Arts Instructor Chef Patrick Austin shared, “Joseph consistently gives his all to every task he takes on, approaching each day in the kitchen with energy, focus, and pride in his work. His passion for culinary arts is evident in everything he does. He leads with kindness and respect, setting a positive example for those around him and helping create a supportive, team-focused environment. Joseph is not only a valued member of our ProStart Management Team, but he has also earned the opportunity to represent Maine at SkillsUSA Nationals in Restaurant Service. He has truly been an outstanding representative of Culinary Arts at CATC, both in and out of the classroom.”
Joseph’s dedication, leadership, and willingness to challenge himself make him a deserving Professional of the Month and a wonderful ambassador for the Culinary Arts program.