Chef Eric Huff has been named Culinary Arts department head for the Culinary Institute of Charleston at Trident Technical College. In this role, Huff will lead the culinary arts and baking and pastry academic programs. He will also play an instrumental role in the college’s two largest fundraising events.
Huff joined CIC in July 2023 as the culinary program coordinator. In that role, he supported the department with instruction, curriculum and advising.
Huff holds an associate degree in Culinary Arts from the Culinary Institute of Charleston at Trident Technical College, a bachelor’s degree in Workforce Education and Development from Southern Illinois University, and a master’s degree in Higher Education and a doctorate in Leadership in Higher Education from American College of Education.
Born and raised in the Charleston area, Huff’s formal culinary education at CIC opened doors for him into restaurants in Charleston and beyond. He was the opening executive chef for Burwell’s Stone Fire Grill downtown and worked as executive chef for Clemson University.
“Chef Eric Huff’s promotion to department head of the culinary department is a testament to his unwavering enthusiasm, deep industry experience and heartfelt commitment to our culinary community,” said Nathan Rex, dean of the Culinary Institute of Charleston. “His passion for excellence and mentorship has inspired both students and colleagues alike, and we are excited to see his leadership continue to elevate our dynamic programs.”
“I have worked with some incredible educators, chefs, cooks, front-of-house staff, dishwashers and more, to whom I owe much of my knowledge and love for the craft,” said Huff. “With over twenty years of adventures in hospitality, baking and pastry, and culinary arts, I feel blessed to now educate the next generation of culinarians here at the Culinary Institute of Charleston.”