New Initiative by Chef Michael Feker Will Feed the Need to Expand Entrepreneurship, Create Jobs and Support Wisconsin Farmers
MILWAUKEE, WI (August 22, 2025) — With Labor Day shining a spotlight on America’s workforce, Milwaukee chef and restaurateur Michael Feker is calling on business leaders, corporate heads and associations to rally around a new initiative. One uniquely designed to empower the next generation of local food entrepreneurs and hospitality leaders: Flavor Soldiers Boot Camp.
Through his Culinary and Hospitality Education Foundation (CHEF), a state and federally recognized 501(c)(3), this hands-on training program led by Chef Feker will equip aspiring food business owners, especially military veterans, minorities and career changers, with the skills needed to launch and grow successful culinary ventures.
“Labor Day is about honoring the people who fuel our economy,” Chef Feker says. “The Flavor Soldiers Boot Camp, which will soon be taking enrollment applications, is an investment in the workforce of tomorrow by creating well-informed and educated business owners and professionals today.”
As part of the Boot Camp, Chef Feker intends to underscore the importance of buying local and strengthening Wisconsin’s food economy. Workforce development in food and hospitality depends heavily on organizations like the Wisconsin Potato Growers, Wisconsin Pork Association, Wisconsin Beef Association, Wisconsin Cranberry Association and Wisconsin Dairy Association. Each one is vital to connecting workforce training with a sustainable local supply chain.
“Workforce development doesn’t happen in isolation,” explains Chef Feker. “It thrives when we support local farmers, producers and businesses. By investing in people, produce and products from Wisconsin, we keep our communities and economy strong.”
Corporate partnership, sponsorship, financial support and resource sharing opportunities are available—be it nonprofit, for-profit, private or public—to expand and maximize the impact the Flavor Soldiers Boot Camp is expected to have throughout southeast Wisconsin and beyond.
“This is a moment for all of us to step up,” encourages Chef Feker. “Together, we can empower people to build meaningful careers, strengthen our economy and support the communities we call home.”
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
