Chef Clifton Dickerson
Chef Instructor, Culinary Arts, Hospitality & Restaurant Operations Management
"Teaching is more than just sharing knowledge; it’s about inspiring curiosity, fostering creativity, and instilling a lifelong passion for the craft. In the kitchen, every dish tells a story—my goal is to help students find their own voice through food."
About
Certified Executive Chef® Clifton Dickerson is a leader with twenty years of experience working with, coaching, and motivating students. Winner of the Escoffier Legacy Award in 2021, he is also a Certified Culinary Educator®.
A strong work ethic has helped build a reputation as a well-respected professional possessing a deep passion for the industry.
He’s enthusiastic about learning new things from both his fellow chefs and his students and is recognized as a proactive mentor and trainer among the staff.
Chef Clifton captures the Austin campus student support at the prestigious Luck Reunion, Potluck 2024 Heirloom Dinner. (Video owned by Luck Reunion)
Honors & Awards
- 2021 Escoffier Legacy Award Winner
Certifications & Affiliations
- ACF Certified Executive Chef®
Professional EXPERIENCE
- Lead Chef Instructor - Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, Austin, TX
- Chef Instructor - Le Cordon Bleu of Culinary Arts
- Culinary Arts Instructor - Del-Valle Independent School District
- Executive Chef - Sodexo/Marriott
Dish Examples
Texas-Style Smoked Brisket & Pork Butt
My culinary journey began at Brian’s Barbecue in Clute, Texas, where I learned the art of smoking brisket and pork butt. Tending the fire, managing the smoke, and waiting patiently for tough cuts to transform into tender, flavorful perfection taught me discipline and respect for the craft. Barbecue isn’t just about food—it’s about patience, tradition, and bringing people together.
Beef Wellington
Beef Wellington is a dish that demands precision, technique, and
perfect execution. The challenge of wrapping a perfectly cooked beef tenderloin in layers of mushroom duxelles, prosciutto, and golden puff pastry embodies everything I love about cooking—the balance of tradition, skill, and timing.
Every step matters, from achieving the right sear on the beef to ensuring the pastry bakes to
a crisp, flaky perfection. The true test comes when slicing into it, revealing a beautifully
cooked center. It’s a dish that represents the artistry of the craft and the satisfaction of mastering something truly special.
Education
- Associate in Occupational Studies in Culinary Arts, The Culinary Institute of America
In The News
Chowhound, 2/9/2025
New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung, 11/18/2024
Texicureans, 10/2024
Special Interests
Fishing, camping, and hunting!
