Thomas Edinger

Background

About Thomas Edinger

As the General Manager & Executive Chef at Washington State University, I oversee the Bakery, Grab and Go, Test Kitchen, and Catering operations within the Culinary Support Center. I have a Bachelor of Science in General Physical Science and a Post Graduate Certificate in Project Management, which enable me to apply scientific and analytical skills to culinary innovation and efficiency. I have close to 20 years of food service experience in various settings, from high-volume production and fast paced line cooking, to upscale and casual fine dining. For the past 4 years, I have been leading the research and development of new recipes, menu selections, and culinary concepts, focusing on evolving culinary trends, consumer preferences, and dietary and nutritional needs. I have also been responsible for managing the culinary database, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and compliance with standards and regulations. In my current role, I manage 11 full-time staff to include 7 bargaining unit employees, 2 associate managers, one sous chef, and one executive chef, as well as 50-plus part-time student employees in a university setting. Some of my duties include hiring, scheduling, training, performance review, corrective action, and career development. I am passionate about food and confident in my abilities to perform in any culinary setting.