Susan Contreras holds a very important role -- not just at Total Source but in our communities. Susan is our K12 school nutrition specialist, and she is responsible for helping directors and nutrition staff use the latest tools and technologies to help our school cafeterias run as efficiently and safely as possible. Let's get to know Susan!
Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in the foodservice industry?
I started out as the K12 foodservice buyer for Chandler USD. I had no idea what this entailed, but after working with such an amazing team where I started with 27 schools, a commissary that produced so many items from scratch, and a large warehouse, I knew this was where I was meant to be. Seventeen years later, and a total of 44 schools, I met the best people (brokers and managers.) who gave me the most incredible experience, which brought me to the broker side.
What is your current role at Total Source, and what does a typical day look like for you?
There is NO typical day, especially in the K12 world. Each day brings new items, commodity processing, helping districts with menu selections or going out to a healthcare account. I love being at Total Source learning new things and Pat Harrington is the best.
How has the industry evolved since you began your career, and how have you adapted?
COVID has completely changed everything. Districts and FS Directors are not as open to taking calls, and as for the K12 world, the regulations changed with all the guidelines from serving everything from candy, soda, chips, etc., to adding whole grain to pizza crust, pasta, cookies, and muffins. Now, the (school nutrition) requirements include lower sugar and sodium in meals. This has been the biggest challenge for the industry. The industry has done a much better job at creating a better product.
What are some challenges that the foodservice industry is currently facing, and how do you think they can be addressed?
Lack of distribution and labor seems to be the biggest challenge, and I am not quite sure how this can change. As for distribution, there needs to be more of a communication tool where brokers can have access to present products to GPOs that control the distribution piece. There needs to be a K12 show for distribution only, along with MANDATORY School Nutrition Conferences to present our products and get the districts involved.
In your opinion, what makes Total Source stand out in the foodservice industry?
Total Source is different because it is a small company where we can give that special attention to our manufacturers' needs. They are open to not just food but large equipment and expanding into disposables.
What’s a fun fact about you that most people at Total Source might not know?
I am very reserved but creative in an artsy way. I love drawing, color, and being the host for my family and friends.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of work that you’re passionate about?
I love interior design, and whenever possible, I will help flip and stage houses and re-model friends' and families’ homes. Most of my work in staging has been out of state (Ohio, Illinois, Missouri).
