Who's to judge? (Top chefs, that's who!)

If you're competing in the upcoming CCAP Preliminary Competition  (Saturday, February 6 at Le Cordon Bleu  at 8100 Camelback Road in Scottsdale), you'll want to know who's judging.

Take a look at the list below, and take time to memorize at least a couple of names and what they do.

Why?? Because while the competition is in full swing, these judges are not just going to be watching very closely, they will also be asking you questions and commenting on your work.

TIP: If a judge stops you in any work and suggests you try a different technique, say, "Yes, Chef! Let me try that right now." Then do it. (yes, you may go back to your original method, but be aware that the chef who gave you that technique is gonna be back. You better have moved on to a different task before that happens!)

TIP TWO (2): If another judge suggests you take that new technique and do it yet another way - guess what? Say, "Yes, Chef!" and get to it immediately. 

TIP THREE (3): Does this all sound difficult? Remember…heat and the kitchen… 

Here's the lineup of top hospitality professionals judging this year's Preliminary Competition:

Alan Zeman, executive chef, RATIONAL USA

Frank Caputo, executive chef, Cancer Treatment Centers of America

Jared Porter, chef/owner, Clever Koi

Silvana Esparza, chef/owner. Barrio Café, Barrio Urbano

Amy Binkley, chef/owner, Binkley's

Eugenia Theodosopoulo, chef/owner, Essence Bakery Café

Lee Hillson, executive sous chef, The Phoenician

Matt Fenton, FnB director, Tarbell's

Rick Boyer, executive chef, The Phoenician

Chris Masco, executive chef, Westin Kierland

Joshua Hebert, chef/owner, POSH Scottsdale

Justin Morrow, executive chef, Canyon Ranch

Shayne Spradling, executive sous chef, Canyon Ranch
Marcos Seville,  executive sous chef, Montelucia