The RATIONAL/JWU Student Innovation Challenge recognizes Johnson & Wales University students for creative, operator-ready thinking around professional kitchen systems and culinary innovation. Rogers, who studies Food and Beverage Industry Management at JWU Charlotte and expects to graduate in 2027, was selected for a full week of industry exposure coordinated by RATIONAL USA’s education and culinary leadership teams.
Rogers brings a depth of professional experience. He currently serves as Junior Sous Chef at Chapter 6, a Mediterranean restaurant in Charlotte, N.C., a position he earned after an internship and working his way through every station in the kitchen. Prior to that, he worked at Abel Brown, a James Beard-nominated restaurant in Augusta, Ga., advancing from Garde Manger through pasta and fish stations before taking on an assistant management role. He also completed a four-month stage in Italy under Chef Sandra Rosy Lotti.
