Barry Callebaut opened the doors to the first United States Chocolate Academy last week in Chicago with an official ribbon-cutting and celebration of the company's brands and products.

"It is a great pleasure for me to be here with you today in Chicago to open the 12th Barry Callebaut Chocolate Academy," stated Barry Callebaut CEO, Patrick De Maeseneire in his welcome speech. "In addition to our 40 factories across the globe, this Academy makes Barry Callebaut the only chocolate company with a presence on all continents."

Courses begin in October at the Academy, each with the goal of inspiring artisans, pastry chefs, confectioners, bakers and caterers from around the globe to share their passion for fine chocolate, improve their skills and techniques, and learn about the latest chocolate-making trends.

The Barry Callebaut Chocolate Academy offers a diverse range of seminars, demonstrations, theoretical courses and practical workshops, focusing on creativity, innovation and proficiency. New and innovative courses are offered, as well as foundational programs for those new to chocolate. The experienced North American Barry Callebaut Technical Advisor Team leads the Academy teaching staff, which regularly includes members of the Barry Callebaut Chocolate Ambassadors Club. This club is comprised of approximately 70 ambassadors from around the world who represent the company brands of Callebaut, Cacao Barry and Carma at trade fairs, demonstrations, shows, exhibitions and other events throughout the year. The ambassadors assist with customer training and also help the company test and develop new products and recipes.

To obtain the 2008-2009 Barry Callebaut United States Chocolate Academy course catalog and to register for classes, e-mail chocolate_academy_usa@barry-callebaut.com or call 866-443-0460.