Episode 155:From the Line to the Toolbox: A Chef’s Journey Into Foodservice Repair

In this episode of Commercial Kitchen Chronicles, we sit down with Mike Horbach to explore his unique journey from the fast-paced life of a chef to building a rewarding career in foodservice equipment repair. Mike’s story proves that your next career opportunity could be right in front of you—and you might not even realize it.

Mike opens up about his years working long, grueling hours in kitchens ranging from concession stands to hotels, and how a simple connection through family and friends led him into the appliance and restaurant equipment repair trade. What started as a chance opportunity turned into a lifelong career, one that gave him better balance, growth, and purpose.

We talk about:

• The reality of burnout and tough schedules in the restaurant industry

• How transferable skills from the kitchen apply to foodservice repair

• Why mentorship and training are key to breaking into a new trade

• The importance of recognizing opportunities when they appear in unexpected places

If you’ve ever felt stuck in your current role or wondered what other opportunities exist in the skilled trades, Mike’s transition is proof that sometimes the best path forward is hidden in plain sight.

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Commercial Kitchen Chronicles

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