Food has always been a part of David Kramer's life since he was 12 and working in a family grocery business – all the way up to his current position as Chairman and Professor of the Culinary Arts Program at College of DuPage where he is training the great restaurateurs and chefs of tomorrow.

From early on, David turned his interest turned into a passion, which he now shares with his students in the Culinary and Hospitality Management program. And throughout his career, David Kramer has always valued the experience. He himself is a graduate of COD's Foodservice Administration program, as well as of the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, and of Northwood University. David worked his way up from a dishwasher/prep cook to executive chef. Lovers of the Chicago dining scene will recognize the many restaurants where Kramer has worked, including Lawry's The Prime Rib, The 95th, Hyatt Hotels, the Art Institute of Chicago and Marriott Hotels.

We were fortunate to have David join us for a few moments in this week’s episode. In our conversation, we covered a number of topics including the very progressive Culinary Arts Program at College of DuPage, how his experience helps David in his teaching role and, of course, his passion for inspiring the next generation of foodservice leadership.