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Clark College - Home of the Penguin Nation

Professional Baking and Pastry Arts at the McClaskey Culinary Institute

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You can be part of the new food culture emerging all over the nation!

By blending a mastery of classic, fundamental techniques with the interpersonal and management skills needed in hospitality, the Tod and Maxine McClaskey Culinary Institute at Clark College offers all the ingredients you need for a successful culinary career— competitive programs, a seasoned team of instructors, a state-of-the-art culinary facility and collaborative industry partnerships. 

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Alison Dolder
Professional Baking Department Head
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World-Class Learning

Whether you aspire to be a pastry chef, lead baker, bakery manager, or open your own food-related small business, the Professional Baking and Pastry Arts program at the Tod and Maxine McClaskey Culinary Institute will prepare you for a range of career opportunities. Our facility gives you hands-on experience in a production kitchen, retail bakery, food kiosks and a full-service dining room.

Our faculty bring their real-world experiences as well as teaching expertise to help you master the technical, organizational and management skills you need to stand out to potential employers. Clark’s culinary program is the only state-supported program within 120 miles of Vancouver, making it both convenient and a great value for your educational investment.

Professional Baking and Pastry Arts Program

Students in the Professional Baking and Pastry Arts program will master the fundamentals of baking, and then combine that knowledge with practical experience working in Clark's production-focused baking lab. Your classes will focus on mastering techniques for making artisan breads, laminated doughs, cakes, tortes, French pastries, and more.

Clark offers a variety of educational path options to meet your personal goals and career needs. 

Real Production Experience

Our Professional Baking and Pastry Arts students gain valuable experience by participating in two distinct retail operations within the program.

The Retail Bakery serves high-quality beverages, baked goods, and artisan chocolates to students, staff, and the general public - all prepared and created in-house! Customers can even order custom cakes and desserts made by our students by calling 360-992-2743 or visiting our location in Gaiser Hall during business hours.

Career Opportunities