Whiteman Airman on Track to Culinary Excellence Published Dec. 2, 2012 By Senior Airman Wesley Wright 442nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs WHITEMAN AFB, Mo. -- A 442nd Fighter Wing Airman here recently graduated from a weeklong culinary seminar, that launched her on a new civilian career path. Airman 1st Class Martina Kellums, 442nd Force Support Squadron services technician, was selected through the Culinary Excellence Program to attend the Culinary Institute of America in Napa Valley, Calif,. in the spring of 2012. Prior to her culinary training, Kellums wanted to earn a degree in criminal justice and become a police officer. "I had not thought of going into culinary arts before I was in the force support squadron," Kellums said. "I didn't want to cook, but now I am here, and I enjoy it." Kellums was the only Air Force reservist selected to attend the yearly program, where she learned food science, cutting techniques, garnishing and how to make food look aesthetically appealing. "I'm not very artistic," Kellums said, "but, watching the instructors make art from food was very inspiring." Maj. Joseph Walter, 442nd FSS commander, was a part of the effort to make sure her package was ready before she attended, she said. "I'm very proud of her," Walter said. "It's inspirational to see military members take what they learn in the Air Force Reserve to inspire change in civilian life. It is a testament to the training the Air Force provides." Kellums now works as a school-age program cook at the Whiteman Youth Center, where the synergy from her civilian job translates to her military one. "I can apply my skills and certifications to my civilian career," Kellums said. "I can take what I've learned and use it to help fellow Airmen and my family at home." Her next steps are to get a bachelor's degree in culinary arts, attend chef school and intern at a prestigious restaurant.