Keener began working in the kitchen at age 14 in Hickory, and continued in the food industry throughout high school and college. After graduating from North Carolina State University, he moved to Colorado and toured the West. Keener moved back to WNC to work as a commodities trader, but after 10 years decided he missed the kitchen. He studied at the French Culinary Institute in New York, and began working at Flight Wood Grill & Bar in 2006. His culinary focus is on regional cuisine.

Q: What secret ingredient would you like to work with?
A: Bacon. It’s an easy, go-to salty, savory flavor.

Q: What edge do you have in this competition?
A: “I hope its creativity.”

Q: Favorite celebrity chef?
A: David Chang

Q: Favorite Beer?
A: Foothills IPA

http://flightwoodgrill.com/

Photograph by Jennifer Hayes