About Our Organization

What is Pilot Light? 

Pilot Light is a Chicago-founded 501(c)(3) Food Education nonprofit organization that ignites curiosity and connection in PreK-12 classrooms through Food Education lessons and programs. 

By integrating Food Education into every day academic lessons in subjects like Math, Reading, History, and Science, Pilot Light makes food relevant and exciting for students and empowers educators to consistently bring these meaningful connections to their classrooms & communities. 

Founded in 2010 by chefs Matthias Merges, Jason Hammel, Paul Kahan, and Justin Large, Pilot Light has grown significantly over the past 12 years into an educator-led organization that invests in teachers as the leaders of the Food Education movement. Pilot Light is proud to implement programs that invest in educator leadership and improve academic, health, and social outcomes for students. 

By partnering with educators to teach students through food and about food, Pilot Light engages students in everyday learning and supports their development of food knowledge and skills. Through experiences with Food Education, students become empowered to advocate for informed food choices for themselves, their families, and their communities. Learn more about the growing impact of Food Education on our website www.pilotlightchefs.org.