As the chef and owner, Chef Ben is the creative force behind Course & Canvas. His passion started early, inspired by late nights watching Good Eats and experimenting with food as a form of expression, prompted by having an artist mother and supportive father. He earned a degree in Food Science from Cal Poly, pairing a strong technical foundation with hands-on kitchen experience while working in kitchens in the area as well as helping to build a local meal prep business with an established chef, gaining practical experience creating customized menus for individual clients.

Since then, Chef Ben has continued developing culinary skills, encompassing a wide range of cuisines from around the world and various dietary restrictions, while working as a Sous Chef in the Bay Area. In most recent years, he served as Executive Chef for a catering company producing over 300 events a year, before founding Course & Canvas. Outside the kitchen, he enjoys spending time in nature, playing video games, and exploring the local community for new and interesting culinary experiences to keep him inspired.