The Chill Zone
The Chill Zone: James Wheat
Utility Specialist James Wheat has been with Thermo-Kool for 24 years. We sat down with him to learn more about him, including his unique birthplace.
One of Thermo-Kool's newest hires is Jon Biegel, our new National Sales Manager. With us for only a few months, overseeing the outside sales team, Jon has already fit right in with the Thermo-Kool team. Let's learn a little more about his foodservice background, his favorite thing to make in a blast chiller, and some of his favorite family memories.
How did you land in the foodservice industry?
Growing up, my best friend's mom owned a catering company, and I fell in love with the industry. Being involved one way or the other is all I have really done throughout my career. From being the chef at one of the largest catering venues in the country, opening several upscale Business Dining operations, to helping to manage one of the largest wine collections in the world.
My career has given me the opportunity to work with some incredible people throughout the years while getting to travel to amazing places all while having the support of the love of my life, Summer, and the ability to provide for my family.
If you could describe Thermo-Kool in one word, what would it be?
Family. Not only is Thermo-Kool a second-generation owned business, but the minute you walk through the doors, you get a sense that everyone cares and wants to learn more about you as a person. Whether you are an employee, rep partner, dealer, or end-user, when you do business with us, you become part of our family, and we do everything we can to make sure we go above and beyond to meet your expectations.
Where do you think the industry is headed?
Hopefully back to more in-person dining with family and friends and less crappy take-out!!!
In your opinion, what's the best, obscure use for a blast chiller?
Making an adult version of a frozen push pop. Not only are they refreshing, but the varieties of what you can create are endless and can help elevate your catered event or your restaurant bar offerings.
What's your favorite food?
Food: Pizza. Beverage: Tequila, all types.
Do you have a favorite restaurant?
My wife and I’s favorite is Cheever’s Café in Oklahoma City. It is a staple of ours that we go back time and time again and always have a great experience.
What's your go-to order if you're out to eat?
Braised Short Rib with Charred Jalapeno Au Gratin Potatoes. Such an amazing dish.
Do you cook at home? If so, what's your favorite tool or appliance?
Yes, Sous Vide Circulator. One of the benefits of not cooking in restaurants anymore is I cook a lot more at home than I used to, which means my wife gets to enjoy being married to a chef for once. Not because of the amazing food, but because she doesn’t have to cook. Hahaha.
Are you binge-watching any TV shows right now?
I just finished rewatching The Blacklist but also love Criminal Minds. If I wasn’t in the hospitality industry, I would be a Criminal Psychologist.
What's the coolest place on Earth you've ever been?
The Cliffs of Moher in Ireland on a sunny day. It doesn’t happen that often, and it was an absolutely amazing experience that Summer and I were able to enjoy together.
What's your favorite cold weather sport?
Snow golf.
Is there anything on your bucket list?
Skydiving and storm chasing with my son, but I will need to get more life insurance and my son Braxton to turn 18 before my wife will let us do it.
Anything else we should know about you that you'd like to share?
I have an amazing wife, Summer, and three kids, Ellie (21), Ava (18), and Braxton (14), and a Son-in-law, Jacob, who is married to Ellie, who just had our first granddaughter, Georgia Mae. We love to travel and go on Christmas vacations as a family every year, but my favorite has been our family trips to the Oregon Coast and the memories we have made there over the years.
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