RCA Awards

Every year the Research Chefs Association pays tribute to the most accomplished, deserving professionals in the food product development industry. These individuals are recognized during an Awards Ceremony that takes place during the RCA Conference.

Lifetime Achievement Award

The Lifetime Achievement Award is given to an individual who has achieved industry-wide recognition, if not mainstream recognition, for their lifetime achievements in Culinology^®. To earn this honor, an individual must have significantly influenced the food industry and/or the consumer market through their career. Nominees must be veterans (at least 25 years) in the food industry serving as an inspiration to others in the industry.

2022 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient

Hadley Katzenbach, Culinary Development Chef, Southeastern Mills

View Past Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients

Pioneer Award

The Pioneer Award is awarded to an individual who has, through their own achievements, become recognized as a leader in the food industry utilizing the practice of combining culinary craftsmanship and food science (applied the discipline/concept of Culinology^®) for at least 10 years. Nominee’s influence must be apparent throughout the food industry, including in education and standard practices.

2022 Pioneer Award Recipients

Howard Cantor, Corporate Executive Chef, Fuchs North America

View Past Pioneer Award Recipients

Kimberly Schaub, CCS^®, Business Development Manager, Griffith Foods

View Past Pioneer Award Recipients

Other Historical RCA Awards

Through the years, the RCA has honored several members for their contributions to Culinology^®, the RCA and the industry.

View Past Recipients