People who are interested in a career in the culinary arts may find themselves in front of a camera instead of slaving away in the kitchen. Instructional cooking shows, as well as programs centered around a popular chef, have gained high ratings and a loyal fan base recently. Recently the Food Network and Cooking Channel announced more television programs based on either food or the art of cooking. Cupcake Wars, which will debut on June 18 on the Food Network, will have top cupcake bakers from around the country faceoff against each other in various challenges that will test their creativity and presentation in making the popular dessert treat. On the Cooking Channel, the new show Cook Like an Iron Chef will feature Iron Chef Michael Symon, who will teach viewers the tricks and skills needed to cook like the celebrated chef, who will be a popular figure to fans of the original show Iron Chef. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median wage for chefs and head cooks was $38,770 as of May 2008. However, cooks who are comfortable in front of a camera could possibly earn significantly more.  |