The techniques and skills I learned [in school] helped me to become the chef that I am today. Jamarius Banks , Executive Chef/Owner, Chef J Banks, Inc. Associate of Arts in Culinary Arts, 2013 , The Art Institute of Atlanta

Competed on Iron Chef International, Runs Culinary Company

Jamarius Banks is the executive chef and owner of his own company, Chef J Banks, Inc. in Marietta, Georgia. He works with new and existing clients and provides on-site cooking, planning, and meal preparation. “Cooking is a career where you have to love what you do,” he says, adding that the long hours can be difficult to navigate without a true passion for the culinary arts.

Jamarius enjoys bringing personality into the kitchen. “When someone is having a bad day, my main goal is to make them happy. I ensure that my guests receive the best [culinary] experience.”

His professional background includes competing on “Iron Chef International” in Canada. “That opened my eyes and showed me that I was not the only one who worked hard and had the desire to win. That [experience drives me to] go even harder, day to day.”

He adds that he overcame a fear of believing that he didn’t have what it takes to be successful in the culinary industry. From that experience, he recommends that others remain focused on their goals. “Be the best that you can be.”

Jamarius, who in 2013 earned an Associate of Arts in Culinary Arts from The Art Institute of Atlanta, says that his education was a great introduction into the industry. “The techniques and skills I learned helped me to become the chef that I am today.” He also encourages current students to keep learning and growing as culinary artists. “The worst thing that you can do is get complacent.”

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