FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Culinary Academy of Las Vegas Unveils Expanded Campus to Help Power the Future of Southern Nevada’s Hospitality Workforce
Best in class nonprofit facility increases training capacity as major milestone in labor development
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LAS VEGAS (May 13, 2026) – The Culinary Academy of Las Vegas (CALV), a nationally recognized nonprofit workforce development organization, today celebrated the grand opening of its newly expanded campus, marking a major milestone in its mission to train the workforce behind Southern Nevada’s hospitality industry.
The expansion increases CALV’s facility from 40,000 to 55,000 square feet and will allow the Academy to serve up to 4,000 students annually. The enhanced campus features new classrooms and learning labs, expanded culinary, food and beverage, and housekeeping training spaces, as well as modernized equipment designed to meet the evolving needs of the hospitality industry.
Founded in 1993, CALV has trained more than 65,000 graduates and currently serves approximately 3,000 students each year, providing hands-on training, job placement support, and career pathways for individuals across Southern Nevada. With an 87% graduation rate and 88% job placement rate, the Academy plays a critical role in strengthening the region’s workforce pipeline and supporting economic mobility.
“This expansion represents an investment not only in our campus, but in the future of our community,” said Dr. Bobbi Damrow, CEO of the Culinary Academy of Las Vegas. “We are creating more opportunities for individuals to gain the skills, confidence, and support they need to build meaningful, long-term careers. Las Vegas is powered by hospitality, and we are proud to help develop the talented workforce that drives this industry.”
CALV offers 15 state-licensed training programs across culinary, food and beverage service, and housekeeping, along with apprenticeship pathways and job placement support through partnerships with more than 50 hospitality employers, as well as Culinary Workers Union Local 226 and Bartenders Union Local 165.
Located in the historic Westside district of Las Vegas, CALV serves individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, including many facing barriers to employment. In addition to workforce training, the Academy provides support services including tuition assistance, transportation support, childcare resources, career counseling, and job placement assistance.
“Since the Culinary Academy of Las Vegas was founded in 1993, our mission has always been centered on creating real opportunity for working families and building a stronger future for workers in our city,” said D. Taylor, President Emeritus of UNITE HERE and an original CALV Trustee. “As the only remaining union trustee from CALV’s original founding board, it is incredibly meaningful for me to witness this next chapter of growth. The expansion of CALV in the Historic Westside represents a deep investment in working people having good union jobs, equitable and accessible workforce development, and a bright future of premiere hospitality in Las Vegas for generations to come.”
As Las Vegas continues to grow as a global hospitality destination, CALV remains at the forefront of workforce development—equipping the next generation of talent with the skills and experience needed to succeed in one of the nation’s most dynamic industries.
“As both a student and former employee of CALV, I gained invaluable professional and personal skills,” said Luis Zacarias, former CALV student and currently employed as a banquet steward on the Strip.“CALV taught me responsibility, accountability, and the true importance of teamwork. These lessons have shaped not only my career, but also the person I am today. CALV has been — and always will be — an important part of my recovery, growth, and journey forward.”
The grand opening celebration welcomed community leaders, hospitality partners, students, graduates, labor leaders, and supporters for a first look at the expanded campus and its new training facilities.
About the Culinary Academy of Las Vegas
The Culinary Academy of Las Vegas is a nonprofit workforce development organization dedicated to preparing individuals for successful careers in the hospitality industry. Since 1993, the Academy has trained more than 65,000 graduates and serves approximately 3,000 students annually through hands-on training programs, industry partnerships, and comprehensive career support services. CALV plays a vital role in building the workforce that powers Las Vegas’ core industry.