Chef Thomas Rutherford is an assistant professor of Culinary Arts at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA), where he brings a wealth of industry experience and a passion for mentoring the next generation of chefs. A Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE), he currently specializes in training students to thrive in high-volume production kitchens, preparing them for careers in catering and banquet operations that serve hundreds, sometimes thousands, of guests with unwavering consistency, quality, and safety. He also teaches Intro to Food Systems.
Rutherford’s culinary journey began at Northampton Community College (NCC) in Bethlehem, PA, where he studied Culinary Arts/Chef Training. Inspired by the transformative power of food and the camaraderie of the kitchen, he continued his education at CIA, earning his associate degree in Culinary Arts in 2001.
With over 29 years in industry, Rutherford built a dynamic career across the hospitality spectrum—from nationally acclaimed restaurants to boutique hotels and independent fine dining establishments. His leadership roles included executive chef/concept chef at Table95 Restaurant Group (Philadelphia, PA); executive chef/corporate chef at Fegley’s Brew Works (Allentown, PA, and Bethlehem, PA); executive chef at Southmoore Country Club (Bath, PA); chef de cuisine/saucier at Edge Restaurant (Bethlehem, PA); and garde manger at the Four Seasons Hotel (Philadelphia, PA).
He also fulfilled a lifelong dream by opening and operating his own restaurant, Thomas at the Bookshop in Bethlehem, which he ran for three years.
In 2018, Rutherford earned his bachelor’s degree in Applied Food Studies from CIA, deepening his understanding of food systems, sustainability, and culinary innovation. His love for teaching blossomed through roles at The Restaurant School at Walnut Hill College (Philadelphia), Northampton Community College, and Bethlehem Area Vocational Technical School.
In 2022, he returned to CIA as a full-time faculty member, thrilled to be back where his own culinary foundation was built, now guiding others as they begin their own journeys. When he’s not in the classroom or the kitchen, Rutherford enjoys immersing himself in campus and community events, traveling, spending time with family, and exploring new restaurants.
Chef Rutherford appeared on Netflix’s Next Gen Chef series filmed at the Culinary Institute of America.