FE&S: When traveling for business, what is one of your favorite pastimes?

Joe Schmitt: I enjoy spending time with my wife Geri when she can travel, and we really try to identify good restaurants that the locals enjoy.

FE&S: What aspect of your career gives you the greatest sense of accomplishment?

Joe Schmitt: Seeing young people learn the industry and get excited about the potential to succeed.

FE&S: Other than your own, name the foodservice company that you admire most and why?

Joe Schmitt: True Manufacturing. It’s a family-owned business that seems to have more pricing integrity than anyone in the industry.

FE&S: What was your first job in foodservice?

Joe Schmitt: "Dishpig" — I worked in high school for a place known as Roberts Smorgasboard 40 Feet of Fine Food. Robert has gone on to become a very successful casino operator and we just completed a project for him in Northwest Iowa.

FE&S: Knowing what you know now, would you still pursue a career in foodservice?

Joe Schmitt: Yes. I feel fortunate to have been able to have the freedom and responsibility of a small business owner.

FE&S: If I were just starting out in the foodservice industry, what advice would you give me?

Joe Schmitt: Educate yourself, get to know as many factory people and manufacturer reps as possible, and be a solution provider.

Click here to read part one of the interview with Joe Schmitt.

------------------

Do you follow FE&S on Facebook or Twitter?

Get the latest foodservice equipment and supplies news delivered directly via your preferred platform.