A chef is a professional cook and tradesperson who is proficient in all aspects of food preparation, often focusing on a particular cuisine. The word "chef" is derived from the term chef de cuisine, the director or head of a kitchen. Chefs can receive formal training from an institution, as well as by apprenticing with an experienced chef.

A tradesperson or tradesman/woman is a skilled worker that specialises in a particular trade. Tradesperson (tradesman/woman) usually gain their skills through work experience, on-the-job training, an apprenticeship program or formal education.