b'DAYTODAYFULL PLATETyler PeoplesMentorOne who helps you thinkK itchens are well known for their structurea Certified Executive Chef with the American and built-in hierarchy systems. This sys- Culinary Federation. He encouraged me to do tem clearly spells out the chain of com- the same, to pursue higher education and certifi-mand, providing clear communication andcation. Today Chef Cook is working hard on structure. Knowing who to look to for guidance,receiving his doctorate degree in nonprofit leader-clarity, and wis- ship. Chef Cook is now the chief programs officer dom is incrediblyand oversees every aspect of SRM programs. valuable. When II have learned so much from Chef Cooks leader-was a young cook,ship; over the past several years, Chef Cook has I looked up to mybecome an important mentor in my life. chefs, who alwaysThe word mentor means advisor, helper, knew what to do;and guide. This word also means one who helps there was comfortyou think. I recently enrolled in university classes in that. A goodalong with nearly half a dozen of my coworkers, chef can see youall of us following the prompting of Chef Cook. through theIn his new role at SRM, Chef Cook has impressed longest nights,upon all his staff the importance of expanding their the hardest shifts,horizons, learning new things, and developing or the toughestadditional skill sets. I am so grateful for the impact customers. A good chef will keep you on trackChef Cook has had on me. His insistence that I find and inspire you to push through your limitations.ways to grow personally and professionally have A good chef will encourage you to take risks topropelled me to new leadership opportunities at the improve your skills and learn new things. SRM. Whether you are an executive chef or a chief Chef Jeff Cook is one of these good chefs.executive officer, your impact as a mentor will have We met nine years ago when he hired me on asperhaps the longest lasting results. staff at the Springs Rescue Mission (SRM). I wasHebrews 13:7 says, Remember your leaders, brought on to help in the kitchen, and he was thewho spoke the word of God to you. Consider the food service director. Chef Cook is a naturaloutcome of their way of life and imitate their leader; he believes in developing himself and hisfaith. I hope to one day have the same impact team. I remember several years ago watchingon others as Chef Cook has had on me. A good Chef Cook practice for his final exam to becomeleader is worth imitating. \x03Tyler is senior director of work for Springs Rescue Mission. During his 10 years in thefood services industry, he has been recognized as the Best Chef in Colorado Springs by the Colorado Springs Restaurant Association, and was awarded Chef of the Year in 2014 by the American Culinary Federation. Contact him at tylerp@springsrescuemission.org.60 WWW.CITYGATENETWORK.ORG SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022'