Chef Week 2026 at
Nicolet College

Chef Week at Nicolet College is a three-day event designed to immerse students, food enthusiasts, and future chefs in today’s most exciting culinary trends. This year’s focus highlights wood-fired cooking, smoking techniques, and the fast-growing food truck industry—giving participants real-world insight into modern culinary careers.

Throughout the week, attendees will learn directly from respected chefs and industry professionals who are shaping the regional food scene. Space is limited for each session, and registration is required.

Featured Events & Registration

Monday, April 20

Luke Zahm – The Wisconsin Foodie
1–3 pm | Northwoods Center
Join Luke Zahm as he shares stories, techniques, and insights from Wisconsin’s vibrant food culture.
Register for this session >

Wood-Fired Drinks & Appetizers (21+)
with Mitch Below & Jeff Dixon
5 –7 pm | Northwoods Center
Experience a unique session combining wood-fired culinary techniques with craft beverages.
Register for this session >

Tuesday, April 21

Joe Bending
11 am–12 pm | Northwoods Center
Explore creative approaches to cooking and the chef’s journey through the culinary world.
Register for this session >

Dylan Carlson – Old Reliable Food Truck
1–3 pm | Northwoods Center
Get an inside look at the food truck industry and what it takes to succeed on the road.
Register for this session >

Wednesday, April 22

Joshua Peters – Shank & Shig Food Truck (Rice Lake, WI)
11am –1pm | Northwoods Center
Learn from a working food truck chef about building a brand and crafting bold flavors.
Register for this session >

Food Truck Rally

 1–6 pm | In front of the Lakeside Center

Wrap up Chef Week with a lively Food Truck Rally featuring approximately six regional food trucks. Sample a variety of flavors and experience the creativity of mobile kitchens firsthand.

Food available for purchase.

Why Attend Chef Week?

• Discover hands-on culinary techniques like wood-fired cooking and smoking
• Explore career paths in restaurants, food trucks, and hospitality
• Connect with professional chefs and industry leaders
• Experience live demonstrations and real-world insights
• Get inspired by the creativity shaping today’s food scene

Chef Week is more than an event—it’s an opportunity to explore your future, build skills, and connect with the culinary community.