Our Bread Isn't All That Rises

Rockin’ Baker Academy is a workforce development program that provides cadet bakers with a comprehensive set of marketable skills that translate easily to culinary industry and many other jobs.

Our mission at Rockin' Baker: Developing skills to transform the lives of people with intellectual disabilities to help them contribute their gifts, find meaningful employment and maximize their independence.

Skills learned by our cadets:
  • Artisan baking skills
  • Work ethic
  • Safe food handling
  • Effective communications
  • Kitchen equipment knowledge
  • Culinary math
  • Coachability
  • Following instructions
  • Basic baking knowledge and skills
  • Personal responsibility
  • Time management
  • Customer service
  • Business professionalism
  • Quality control

Cadets are selected for the program based on referrals to Rockin Baker by the Arkansas Support Network, Lifestyle and Parents.  Currently, due to Covid-19 we are not onboarding new cadets.

Stretch Your Dough Further Than Ever

Your donation to Rockin' Baker makes a life-changing difference in the lives of Northwest Arkansans

The Bread of Life

The word bread translates into “life” in many cultures. For thousands of years, people have transformed three simple ingredients—flour, water and salt—into the magical, life-nourishing pantry staple of bread. 

​Rockin’ Baker Academy is where old-school bread-making meets new-school social change

We're Not Afraid to Get Our Hands Doughy

The commercial bakery is the ideal work environment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to learn how to interact with other team members while also learning the wholesale production of baked goods. 
 
At the Rockin' Baker, we adhere to four training modules approved by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Apprenticeship and each consisting of 40 hours of on-the-job training.
 
Each cadet is assessed to determine capabilities, and the program is adjusted to fit their needs. After completion of the modules, students attend resume writing workshops, mock interviews, and financial literacy sessions. 
 
Our job-readiness program also identifies potential employers for new graduates.  We remain in contact with the employer to resource any additional needs.
 
Graduates who complete 432 apprenticeship training hours in 3 years receive a Certificate of Completion as a Baker, in accordance with the basic standards recommended by the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Apprenticeship.