To the left, Terry Shields, CPCE, CSEP, accepts his certification plaque from Gayle Skelton, CPCE, in Houston, Texas during the NACE 2007 Educational Conference.

Professional Certification

NACE encourages the professional development of caterers and event specialists through voluntary participation in its certification program. Achievement of the Certified Professional Catering Executive (CPCE) designation demonstrates expertise in catering earned by taking a comprehensive examination that covers the seven core competencies of the catering and event management industry.

The goals of the CPCE program are to:

• Establish a nationally recognized standard of competence in catering.
• Promote professional commitment to excellence in catering.
• Endorse active participation in educational offerings that support the continued competency of Certified Professional Catering Executives.
• Aid employers in identifying qualified catering personnel.
• Enhance the professional image of the catering executive.
• Provide a sense of personal achievement for the advancement of one’s career.

The process to obtain the CPCE has never been easier or more streamlined.

1. Download the CPCE Application Form (Word format).
2. Complete the application and return with application fees to NACE.
3. Upon your application’s approval, you will receive the Certified Professional Catering Executive Study Guide^*. The study guide includes all the material you need to know to become an expert in the seven core competencies of the CPCE exam:

   Accounting
   Beverage Management
   Catering Services
   Contracts and Agreements
   Event Management
   Food Production
   Sales and Marketing
   

   ^* In addition to the study guide, candidates must purchase the ServeSafe Coursebook available through www.amazon.com or www.servsafe.com.
4. Candidates have one year from their application's acceptance to sit for the exam. 

Future Exam Dates

  February 19, 2019 – Portland, OR (in conjunction with NACE Leadership Summit)

  March 9, 2010 – Las Vegas, NV (in conjunction with Catersource Conference)
  July 25, 2010 – Austin, TX (in conjunction with NACE Experience! 2010)

 

If you would like to come to NACE Headquarters to take the exam, please email cpce@nacenet.org.

Recertification

Recertification Application (Word Document)

For further information regarding the recertification process, please contact NACE Headquarters.

Certified Professional Catering Executive Study Guide

The price of the study guide is included in the application fee, however you may purchase the guide separately for $99.

CPCE Fast Track Program

NACE is pleased to offer CPCE candidates, a 7-week web-based training program to assist in preparation for the CPCE exam. Each week, the instructor will review one of the seven CPCE core competencies. Your CPCE application does not have to be approved to participate in the Fast Track. Candidates who complete the entire course receive .7 CEUs towards initial certification. The sessions are recorded so even if your unable to participate in all the sessions, you can listen to the recordings at your own convenience. 

Upcoming Trainings

March 7-8, 2010 - 2-day in-person training at the Catersource Conference*
*Note: The March 7 training will be held from 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm.  The March 8 training will be held from 2:45 pm - 5:45 pm.

For more information, email cpce@nacenet.org.

Frequently Asked Questions

Industry certification has been proven to enhance sales, boost careers and supply the knowledge necessary to become a bona fide expert and leader. For any questions about the CPCE exam, contact NACE Headquarters at 410-290-5410.

Yes! I'd like more information about the CPCE program.