Story by: Nancy Bonds, Director of Communication

Goose Creek CISD seniors Erik Gonzalez and Alec Lopez of Stuart Career Technical High claimed first place in the Level 3 Food Innovation category at the recent FCCLA State Leadership Conference. Competing at the highest level of the event, the duo impressed judges with their creativity, professionalism, and strong understanding of nutrition and product development. Their success was made possible under the mentorship of Stuart's culinary instructors, Chef Kylie Sobczak and Chef Tina Andrade.

 

Erik Gonzalez and Alec Lopez proudly pose with their 1st place plaque in Level 3 Food Innovation. Photo by Kylie Sobczak.

 

This year’s Food Innovation theme centered around superfoods, nutrient-rich ingredients gaining popularity for their health benefits. The challenge called for participants to design a nutritious beverage that featured a unique superfood, followed strict dietary guidelines and appealed to a broad age group.

 

Gonzalez and Lopez created “Strango,” a protein smoothie inspired by the classic flavor combination of chocolate-covered strawberries. The drink was crafted with strawberries, oatmeal, and dark chocolate, offering nutritional value with a dessert twist. Their presentation featured innovative packaging and a spinning visual display of the product, catching the judges' attention and bringing their concept to life.

 

From the start, the students took an entrepreneurial approach. They developed a detailed planning process summary sheet, emphasizing taste-testing with peer groups, collecting feedback, and making strategic improvements based on data. “Our planning process was key. We treated it like a real business,” said Alec. “We went through multiple rounds of revisions after letting our senior and junior classmates test it.”

 

The team also tackled real-world production challenges by researching shipping methods, temperature control, and product storage, an aspect of the project that they took further than most competitors. “It wasn’t just about making a drink,” Erik noted. “We had to think about how it would hold up on shelves and in transit. That gave us a more complete view of what it means to launch a product.”

 

This project marked the first time Erik and Alec had worked together, but their collaboration was seamless. They divided responsibilities, worked both during school hours and on their own time and brought their individual strengths to the table. Their previous experiences in the culinary program helped them refine their presentation skills, project planning, and ability to engage with judges. “Our program taught us how to sell our ideas and personalities to the judges. We really learned how to ‘sell your excitement.’” Erik said.

 

Their win reflects their talent, hard work, and the strength of Goose Creek CISD’s CTE programs. “This experience has taught us how to carry ourselves professionally, develop and pitch ideas, and grow through feedback,” The students said. “The certifications and training we’ve received give us a head start and real credibility going into our futures.”

 

The school community congratulates Erik and Alec for their outstanding achievement and thanks the dedicated faculty who continue to make student success possible.