Joshua Pickering is the recipient of Blackhawk Technical College’s 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award, which recognizes a graduate who exemplifies the value of a technical college education through leadership, creativity, community involvement, professional commitment, and a reflection of the broader community. He was recognized at Blackhawk’s Golden Brick Awards on June 9.

Pickering graduated from Blackhawk Technical College’s Culinary Arts program in 2010 and has since built his career in the restaurant industry. His journey has taken him through Madison, Lake Geneva and Chicago, including time at the Michelin-starred Spiaggia where, as a cook, he helped cater the prestigious James Beard Awards. Now back in his hometown of Janesville, Pickering is the chef and managing partner of Genisa Wine Bar and Jack & Jenny’s restaurants.

Pickering is active with Forward Janesville and the downtown business association. Both restaurants hold numerous charitable/fundraising events throughout the year for a variety of local organizations. He also serves on Blackhawk’s Culinary and Hospitality Management advisory committees. Outside of the restaurants, he enjoys running marathons and triathlons as well as rooting for the Cubs with his wife, Amanda, and four small children.