Students Visit the Copper Door

Culinary Arts students from Manchester School of Technology enjoyed a taste of their possible career paths this week, when they toured the Copper Door Restaurant with the popular eatery’s chef, according to a press statement.

On Monday, June 1, a group of nearly 40 students and staff members visited the Copper Door on Leavy Drive in Bedford.

Tom Boucher, CEO of parent company Great NH Restaurants, said he decided to extend the invitation after learning about the local technical school’s inclusive programs. At the Manchester School of Technology, instructors and students from the general population team up with students who have special needs, preparing school breakfasts, snacks and lunches. In doing so, the program encourages MST children to sharpen their skills by exposing them to opportunities in the culinary arts.

“It’s amazing what they do there,” Boucher said of the program. “I was quite moved.”

Welcoming the students and teachers was Chef Chris Volkmann. Incidentally, this isn’t the first time Volkmann has shared his knowledge with visiting youth: he’s often extended invitations to various groups over the years. Following the tour, where students enjoyed chatting with Volkmann and asking him questions, the students and staff were treated to a delicious lunch.

Mike Holfelder, a chef instructor at Manchester School of Technology who oversees the Intro to Culinary Arts program, said the trip to the Copper Door was truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for some of his students.

“It’s very rare for these children to experience something like this and I’m sure they will never forget it,” Holfelder said. “I just can’t thank Great NH Restaurants enough for this truly unique effort.”

For more information call the Copper Door at 603-488-2677 or visit greatnhrestaurants.com.

Caption: MST Culinary Arts students chatted with Chef Chris Volkmann during a visit to The Copper Door on June 1.