International Association of Women Chefs and Restaurateurs

Conferences and Other Programming - The programmatic activities of WCR are focused on educating and expanding opportunities for women in the food industry. WCR's programming includes a National Conference, which is an annual two-day event held in rotating cities through the United States, and a Biennial Canadian Conference, as well as other events. WCR's conferences, which are open to the general public, offer valuable training and instruction for attendees, while providing women in the industry an opportunity to meet and learn from one another in an educational and social setting. Conferences feature interviews and conversations on a variety of topics, including Leadership and Culture, Food Sustainability and Transparency, Mental Health and Wellness, Food Waste, Leveling the Funding Field, Facing the Labor Crisis, and Empowerment in the Workplace. Conferences also offer training on a variety of specific skills, how to develop and get a product to market and the operational differences between a personal and a private chef. WCR also offers a variety of other events, some provided free of charge and others offered for a fee, that provide opportunities for education and connection. These events include Regional Education Sessions, which constitute a single day of educational and inspirational programming, as well as local two-to-four hour social and educational gatherings.

Films and Newsletters - WCR believes that in order to educate women in the culinary industry, it is important to recognize the women who have created meaningful impact in the industry. WCR therefore produces, supports, and funds films and videos that advance the recognition of such women. WCR also produces a monthly e-newsletter through which it engages its six thousand opt-in subscribers by keeping them informed of industry opportunities, issues, and tools that support strong professional and personal development. By highlighting and celebrating individual success in the industry, this newsletter helps women in the industry to learn from and about one another.