What initially drew you to your field, and how has that passion evolved over time?

Well…When I turned 15, mom said if I wanted to drive, I would have to pay for gas and insurance, so a week later I walked into downtown Evergreen, CO and the second place I applied to was a restaurant. The KM gave me an interview and hired me on the spot to wash dishes. After 4 months, there was a line cook opening and because I had the cleanest floors, I was offered the job. Fast forward a couple of years and after my Army career was cut short due to an injury, I enrolled in culinary school. Both of my grandmothers were fantastic cooks and I always helped in the kitchen – the Food Network was just starting to become a thing, but I’m not sure I thought about it as a career path at that point but I strove to be the best at what I did.

What recent accomplishment at work has you feeling most energized?

Recently, the “remodeling” of the showroom. It’s inviting and a space I feel proud to bring people. I think it showcases our awesome manufacturers very well too!

Do you have any hidden talents or are you into any hobbies? Tell us about them 

I am not sure if they are hidden but my dad is a master electrician and carpenter, and I have picked up those trades from him-and I love to go fishing with my dog Bodhi. 

What’s your go-to karaoke song?

I’ve never technically sang Karaoke, but if we need a song I like to sing to because it’s fun – Birdhouse in Your Soul by They Might Be Giants is fun. If I’m trying to get pumped up it would be something more aggressive like Pearl Jam, Pennywise, or Silversun Pickups.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Just keep going no matter the obstacle.

What’s a unique skill or expertise you bring to the table that benefits the team?

I think my culinary skills adds to our ability to find the right solutions for our customers – be it finding the right equipment for the application OR

What is the biggest mistake people make in the kitchen?

Thinking they are better than they are, or not producing SAFE delicious food.