Affordable, state-licensed and nationally accredited culinary training expands access to high-demand careers in New York City

NEW YORK, Sept. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Fedcap’s Apex Technical School has named chef Youngsun Lee as its newest Chef Instructor. Beginning October 13, Chef Lee will lead the school’s new Culinary Arts class at Apex’s Midtown Manhattan campus, bringing his culinary expertise and Michelin-starred restaurant experience to students. Enrollment is open now at https://ApexTech.edu.

The appointment reflects Fedcap’s commitment to economic mobility: high-caliber instruction, a top-tier campus, and an affordable tuition model, making the program accessible to students of all backgrounds. With tuition at $16,500 before scholarships and grants, it is the lowest-cost culinary arts program in New York State that is licensed by the NYS Education Department and nationally accredited by ACCSC.

“I’m thrilled to begin this new venture at Apex’s Culinary Arts program,” said Youngsun Lee, Chef Instructor, Apex Technical School. “I’m honored to have a role in mentoring the next generation of culinary professionals, and I hope to pass on the knowledge I’ve gained from working in the kitchens of some of New York City’s top restaurants.”

Chef Lee’s career spans some of New York’s most elite kitchens, including Momofuku, Craft, and Michelin-starred Jean-Georges, as he joins an accomplished faculty of veteran chefs and advisors. Through hands-on mentorship, students gain insight into the discipline a lasting culinary career requires, reflecting Apex’s commitment to pairing training with industry excellence.

This growth reflects a larger strategy at The Fedcap Group — developing programs for careers essential to New York City’s economy amid rising demand for skilled workers. This connects directly to Fedcap’s wider push to embed education into its employment ecosystem and its social enterprise network, connecting graduates with employers.

“Bringing in an accomplished chef like Youngsun Lee to our culinary arts program is a testament to Fedcap and Apex’s missions,” said Steve Markowitz, President of Apex Technical School. “The school is committed to providing students with a strong pathway towards high-caliber culinary careers.”

About The Fedcap Group
For nearly ninety years, The Fedcap Group has developed scalable, innovative solutions to advance economic mobility through education, workforce development, health, and economic development, partnering with the federal government to improve how services are delivered. Visit www.fedcapgroup.org.

Media Contact
Jim Malatras, 212-727-4200, JMalatras@fedcap.org

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SOURCE The Fedcap Group