Nick Vedia is the Training Executive Chef for Chesapeake Public Schools, where he leads culinary training and menu innovation with a focus on student wellness and nutrition. Nick brings over 20 years of experience in the food service and hospitality industry, including 15 years in food service management across California, Texas and Virginia. Nick began his journey in school nutrition in 2020 at Virginia Beach City Public Schools, where he quickly advanced from Culinary Development Chef Assistant to District Sous Chef. He is a proud graduate of the inaugural Healthy School Food Pathway Fellowship and also serves as a consultant with the Institute of Child Nutrition (ICN). With a deep passion for creating meals that are both nutritious and exciting, Nick is dedicated to improving the student dining experience and inspiring healthy eating habits. One of his greatest joys is seeing students light up when they try a new recipe he’s crafted—it’s a moment that reminds him why he does this work.