Curtis Hammer is a business owner from Summit County, Colorado. At just 17 years old, and in Highschool Curtis has immense experience and passion for the cooking industry. His love for cooking originated from the Summit High School ProStart program and from one of his biggest mentors, Terri Vantiger. The ProStart program boosted his skills and love for cooking. As a part of the SHS ProStart competition team, he also has many accomplishments. Scoring 1st place at the FCCLA One Plate Challenge, 4th with his team at the FCCLA ProStart competition, but also donating his time back to the program. Curtis has volunteered over 100 hours through many teacher lunches, parent-teacher conferences, and organization meetings like PTSO, and catering for these events. In his time in and out of school, Curtis is always cooking or taking an interest in a new culinary idea. While having 3 ¨Off-periods¨ which he could go home for, Curtis regularly stays at the school to continue cooking. Many times, he provides advice and mentorship to other students who need help with cooking projects. If not, he is creating new meals to try or give to students and teachers. When not in school, Curtis works at Radicato in Breckenridge along with Cameron Baker, whom he takes much inspiration from. Curtis plans to attend the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in the 2026 fall semester. He hopes to one day open his own restaurant. His cooking journey will only continue from here. 

If you would like, you can donate to help Curtis afford his cooking journey and culinary education.