Jr Iron Chef VT is a career exploration program and competition that empowers Vermont youth to create locally sourced meals that promote Vermont’s Farm to School efforts.Since 2008, more than 5,000 Vermont middle and high school students on 1,000+ teams have participated in this groundbreaking program. Along the way, they’ve learned how to create and prepare recipes from scratch, built self-confidence, developed teamwork, leadership, and communication skills, learned about local agriculture and nutrition, and established relationships with peers, chefs, mentors, and local farmers. The program culminates one day every March when youth from across the state are brought together to stand side-by-side in an orchestrated frenzy—dicing, grating, and sautéing their way to culinary fame!