Seal of Approval Helps Graduate Cook Up Success
From volunteer cook to certified Red Seal Cook, Karen Kabatay-Maclean is a shining example of how rewarding a career in the skilled trades can be
Karen Kabatay-Maclean is one of seven graduates of the first all-Indigenous and all-journeypersons group from the Atlantic Trades Business Seal (ATBS) program.
It is also the latest example of her passion and dedication to the culinary arts.
Karen fell in love with cooking at a young age. Her father taught her how to cook in their family’s kitchen. Later she volunteered at a community kitchen in Membertou to gain experience. And it was there she learned how food and cooking can make an impact on people’s lives. From that point, Karen knew life’s passion was going to be cooking.
With 17 years experience in the hospitality industry, she was driven to keep learning and knew the ATBS program would be a great way to advanced her career.
“Once I heard about the program, I jumped on it. I knew it was a once in a lifetime career move.”
The program gave Karen the skills to tackle managerial roles and explore running and owning her own business.
As the only woman in the graduating class, and with nearly two decades of culinary experience, Karen says there are very few women working in the field and in skilled trades.
But that is no reason to hold back.
“I noticed there aren’t many females working in the kitchen. But I came a long way. I say stick to it, even if it gets hard. You don’t know how much you’ll appreciate it when you finish.”
Karen is now a Red Seal Cook and an Executive Sous Chef at Kiju’s Restaurant in Membertou.
“It makes me feel proud and honored to finish the program. It also makes me feel like I accomplished something greater in my career.”
The members of this year’s graduating class represent three of Unima’ki’s five First Nations. Graduates include three business owners, the director of housing for Potlotek First Nation, and a cook, carpenter and a truck and transport mechanic — all with Certificates of Qualification bearing the Red Seal.
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The Atlantic Trades Business Seal Program is a continuing education program for Atlantic journeypersons to improve business and leadership skills and gain regional career mobility. The seal can prepare people to take managerial roles or start a business. The program can help business owners develop the skills needed to take their businesses to the next level.
