From Bean to Brilliance: SoWashCo’s Schools Café Work Experience Course Brews Opportunity

In SoWashCo Schools, the Café Work Experience Course—part of the Adult Basic Education Program—is more than just coffee—it’s a recipe for career readiness and personal growth. This hands-on program offers participants the chance to gain real-world food service and hospitality experience while developing vital literacy, numeracy, and digital skills. Students take on every aspect of running a coffee shop, from crafting menus and designing name tents to managing job-costing spreadsheets. Along the way, they work toward earning both the Food Service Manager certificate and the Certified Food Protection Manager credential from the Minnesota Department of Health.

The program also celebrates the inspiring personal journeys of its participants.

🌟 Student Spotlight: Mariana I.

A licensed nutritionist in Venezuela, Mariana I. once served as the official Nutritionist for the Venezuelan National Football (Soccer) team, ensuring players were fueled with wholesome, nutrient-rich meals for competitive matches. While her degree and certification in nutrition do not carry the same weight in the United States, Mariana is creating her own opportunities in Minnesota. She attends English classes, greets the SoWashCo community as a barista, and has earned industry-recognized credentials such as the ServSafe Food Manager certificate and the Certified Food Protection Manager certification.

🌟 Student Spotlight: Mohamed R.

Originally from Saudi Arabia, Mohamed R. worked in Human Resources and Logistics before moving to the United States with his wife and four children. In Saudi Arabia, men typically do not work in kitchens, but Mohamed embraced the skills he developed through the Café Work Experience Course. Those skills helped him secure a job within the SoWashCo School District. He proudly posed with Adult Programs Supervisor Susie Evans to celebrate his new role and ID badge.

The impact is brewing in many ways. More than 50 students have participated so far, supported by six dedicated staff members. Many graduates have stepped into in-demand community jobs, strengthened family connections, and—perhaps most importantly—gained a new sense of confidence. “The biggest impact might be the confidence that they gained in themselves,” says Adult Programs Supervisor Susie Evans. With every latte served and every spreadsheet completed, students are preparing for a future filled with opportunity.