Myrtle Beach, SC, February 2, 2026
News Summary
The International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach, led by Executive Director Joseph Bonaparte, is making significant strides in culinary education. Promoting hands-on training and modern facilities, the institute prepares students for successful careers in the culinary sector. With a strong job placement rate and diverse programs, HGTC is becoming a cornerstone of workforce development and community enrichment in South Carolina.
Myrtle Beach, SC — The academic landscape of the Grand Strand is continually shaped by institutions committed to fostering talent and driving regional development. Among these, the Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) stands out for its dedication to accessible, high-quality education, particularly through its renowned International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach. The institute’s Executive Director, Joseph Bonaparte, plays a pivotal role in leading this culinary center, which is actively preparing the next generation of culinary professionals for South Carolina and beyond.
Under Bonaparte’s guidance, the International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach exemplifies a commitment to academic rigor and practical application. His leadership emphasizes hands-on experience and a comprehensive understanding of the culinary arts, ensuring students are well-equipped for successful careers. The institute not only serves as a vital educational resource but also significantly contributes to the economic vitality and cultural richness of the Myrtle Beach area.
Leadership Driving Culinary Excellence
Joseph Bonaparte, Executive Director of the International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach, brings a wealth of experience and a clear vision to his role. A highly trained, award-winning chef and certified culinary educator, Bonaparte accepted the directorship with aspirations for the institute to become one of the premier culinary schools in the nation. His professional journey included teaching in Texas and serving as the Culinary Director of the Art Institute of Charlotte before moving to the region three years prior. His commitment to excellence was evident in his involvement with the design and redesign of the kitchens within the institute’s state-of-the-art facility. Bonaparte envisions HGTC as a driving force in advancing good food and nutrition along the Grand Strand, ultimately elevating professionalism and product quality within the local culinary and hospitality sectors. His ongoing engagement with the community included being an expected guest for an interview on February 1, 2026, highlighting his continued active presence in local discussions.
A State-of-the-Art Learning Environment
The International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach, located on HGTC’s Grand Strand campus in The Market Common area, boasts a modern, attractive, and world-class facility. Unveiled in late 2016 following a $15 million investment, this purpose-built facility replaced earlier classrooms, marking a significant advancement for culinary education in the region.
The institute is equipped with advanced technology and features that rival culinary schools nationwide. These include two teaching kitchens, two baking labs, a bake shop, a demonstration kitchen/auditorium, a production kitchen with a bar, an exposed cooking suite and hearth oven, an outdoor BBQ and dining area, a greenhouse, a chef’s dining room, and a teaching dining room complete with conditioned wine storage. With six kitchens in total, including two dedicated to hot food instruction, the facility ensures students gain extensive practical experience using the latest cooking equipment.
Comprehensive Programs and Hands-On Training
The International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach offers diverse academic programs designed to prepare students for various career paths in the culinary field. The core offerings include an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts Technology and specialized training in Baking and Pastry Arts. The curriculum is structured to explore diversified cuisines, cultures, and business aspects of the multifaceted culinary and hospitality industries.
A cornerstone of the institute’s practical training is its student-operated facilities, the Fowler Dining Room and Layers Bakery, both open to the public. These venues provide invaluable real-world experience in areas such as fine dining, buffet, and café service. Menus in the Fowler Dining Room are crafted with a focus on taste, texture, color, and creativity, often utilizing locally grown vegetables, fruits, meats, seafood, cheese, and eggs, thereby supporting local farmers and promoting the Slow Food movement. The institute also extends its reach to the wider community through personal interest classes, youth summer camps, and various boot camps covering topics from baking and pastry to specific cuisines like Mexican or Indian. The quality of education is recognized by its accreditation from the American Culinary Federation (ACF), and the Culinary Arts Program achieved exemplary status from the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation (ACFEF) in February 2022.
Accessibility and Affordability at Horry-Georgetown Technical College
Horry-Georgetown Technical College is a public technical college and a key component of the South Carolina higher education system. It is recognized for being one of the most affordable colleges in the state, making quality education accessible to a broader range of students. For the 2025-2026 academic year, residents of Horry or Georgetown County pay $175.00 per credit hour for 1-14 credit hours, or a flat rate of $2,625.00 per semester for 15 or more credit hours. The average net price for students receiving aid at HGTC was reported at $5,406 per year.
HGTC serves a large area with three main campuses located in Conway, Myrtle Beach (Grand Strand), and Georgetown, providing convenient and accessible learning environments across the region. The college offers over 80 associate degree, diploma, and certificate programs, focusing on career-oriented education and student success.
Impact on Workforce and Community Development
The International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach plays a crucial role in regional workforce development by consistently producing highly skilled graduates. The institute boasts a remarkable 100% job placement rate for its graduates in industry-related positions after completing their programs. These well-trained professionals are essential to the thriving hospitality sector of the Grand Strand, which features over 1,800 restaurants. Graduates contribute to diverse dining establishments, ranging from fine dining to southern cooking, both locally and across the country.
The broader impact of HGTC extends beyond culinary arts. The college provides real-world experience through hands-on training and internships, with approximately 90% of its graduates choosing to stay and work within the local area. This retention significantly strengthens the local economy and addresses regional workforce needs. Discussions in November 2025 about a potential campus expansion in northwest Horry County further illustrate HGTC’s ongoing commitment to economic growth and educational reach within the community. This expansion aims to boost the economy and supply skilled workers for various trade jobs, complementing the culinary institute’s contributions to the hospitality sector.
Conclusion
The International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach, under the dedicated leadership of Executive Director Joseph Bonaparte, stands as a beacon of academic excellence and practical training within South Carolina higher education. Through its advanced facilities, comprehensive programs, and commitment to student success, the institute not only nurtures future culinary leaders but also significantly contributes to the economic vibrancy and cultural identity of the Grand Strand. HGTC’s broader mission of providing affordable and accessible education across its multiple campuses further reinforces its vital role in developing a skilled workforce and fostering personal responsibility among students. Readers are encouraged to explore the diverse programs offered by Horry-Georgetown Technical College, attend campus events, and stay informed about the impactful developments within the Myrtle Beach SC college news community. The continued innovation and discipline demonstrated by such institutions are crucial for the sustained growth and prosperity of the region.
Key Information: Horry-Georgetown Technical College International Culinary Institute
| Feature | Detail | Scope/Source |
|---|---|---|
| Executive Director | Joseph Bonaparte | Local |
| Facility Cost | $15 million (new facility opened late 2016) | Local |
| Accreditation | American Culinary Federation (ACF) | National |
| Culinary Arts Program Status (Feb 2022) | Exemplary (by ACFEF) | National |
| Job Placement Rate (ICI graduates) | 100% in industry-related positions | Local |
| HGTC Affordability | One of the most affordable colleges in the state | State-level |
| HGTC In-State Tuition (2025-2026, 15+ credit hours) | $2,625.00 per semester (Horry/Georgetown County residents) | State-level |
| HGTC Campuses | Conway, Grand Strand (Myrtle Beach), Georgetown | Local |
| HGTC Graduates Staying in Area | Approximately 90% | Local |
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Joseph Bonaparte’s role at Horry-Georgetown Technical College?
- Joseph Bonaparte serves as the Executive Director of the International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach at Horry-Georgetown Technical College.
- When did the new International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach facility open?
- The new $15 million facility for the International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach officially opened in late 2016, with a grand opening in November 2016.
- What types of programs are offered at the International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach?
- The institute offers an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts Technology and programs in Baking and Pastry Arts, alongside personal interest classes, youth summer camps, and various culinary boot camps.
- Is Horry-Georgetown Technical College considered affordable?
- Yes, Horry-Georgetown Technical College is recognized as one of the most affordable colleges in South Carolina.
- Do graduates from the International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach find employment?
- Yes, the International Culinary Institute of Myrtle Beach reports a 100% job placement rate for its graduates in industry-related positions.
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Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
