Drinnon Begins Internship at Emeril’s of New Orleans
Ridge Drinnon
Staff Photo by Jeff Depew
Ridge Drinnon, a May 10th, 2014 graduate of the Culinary Arts Program at Walter’s State’s Sevierville campus, is set to begin a promising culinary career with flair and a little name dropping. He will soon begin an internship in New Orleans with Emeril Lagasse, at his flagship restaurant Emeril’s of New Orleans. “I’m ready for it”, Ridge says about this exciting opportunity. He was awarded this internship by the Head Chef of Walter’s State’s culinary program. One internship is awarded each semester, and Ridge was chosen from a select group of candidates. This type of hands on experience with a popular and well respected chef like Emeril Lagasse is a rare opportunity and, as Ridge says, “a chance to learn from the best”. In addition to the 3 month internship, he also has the opportunity for full time employment. Ridge says that he loves the Creole style of cooking and is really looking forward to his time in New Orleans.
When asked about his future plans, Ridge says he would love to have his own restaurant, and he is also interested in healthy eating and meal planning for those people who have special dietary needs. Ridge will begin his internship later this summer and right now he is busy working out the details of moving to New Orleans, but he is anxious for the adventure to begin. As Ridge Drinnon sets out on the journey to culinary stardom, JeffersonCounty can take pride in the success of one of its own, and in the learning institution and educators who gave him the tools he needed to cook up a bright, successful future.
