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Tech Spotlight: William Shurter
July 20, 2023

How It All Started

William Shurter loves a challenge. In fact, that desire to test his capabilities led him to join the ATECH team. Will has an extensive background in commercial kitchen repair, but he had been working in the residential side of the industry before joining ATECH. After several years in that sector, he was ready to return to the more complex world of commercial kitchen repair. 


“I like the challenge of learning how stuff works, understanding why something is doing what it’s doing, and how to get to the point to diagnose it. I really started missing the challenge that comes with the commercial side of food equipment repair and was ready to get back to it. ATECH has been a great fit so far, and I’m really excited about the opportunity to refine my skills and learn new ones.”


At the time of his spotlight interview, Will had been on the ATECH team for four months. The self-proclaimed bookworm has a love for learning and is already looking forward to all of the classes and training opportunities offered by the company. 


Training at ATECH


On average, ATECH technicians train around 87 hours annually to ensure they understand how to repair equipment to meet each manufacturer’s specifications. They also learn about the latest trends and technology in the industry. That’s more than two weeks of the year spent learning and practicing new techniques directly with the manufacturers themselves.


“Having the opportunity to both study, read, and then do hands-on learning and training is really suitable for me. ATECH has provided me with the refrigeration
CFESA book that I’m using to study for the CFESA test, which is obviously important to me. Being given the time to study and given access to that literature is really a great thing. It just gives me the motivation to do my job even better.” 


ATECH also has a long partnership with the
Commercial Food Equipment Service Association (CFESA). ATECH has received a Level 3 Certification, the highest certification level for equipment receipt and installation from CFESA. ATECH’s membership with CFESA also includes a commitment to continued education and training. Several team members are actively pursuing certification in various areas of electrical, gas, steam, and refrigeration, including Will. 


As an
authorized service agent for more than 123 manufacturers, ATECH has access to support and training not available to every service repair company. For example, last year, technicians attended over a dozen training sessions hosted by specific manufacturers. Being able to study specific equipment has been helpful to Will. 


“Different manufacturers design their equipment in different ways and just being able to have the option to go to classes to better understand the equipment I’m working with, it’s a nice tool to have in the toolbox. It fits with my personality too. When I’m doing something, I kind of like to know all aspects of it.”


Outside of Work


Outside of work, Will has a full family life with his girlfriend and their two sons: an eight-year-old and a seven-year-old. These days, Will and his family spend a lot of time at the ballpark, watching his son play little league. 


“It’s a busy time of year for us! But I don’t have to worry about missing anything. ATECH makes the work-life-family balance very easy and very simple to achieve.”


The adventure seeker also spends a lot of time outdoors, chasing waterfalls and going white water rafting. Will loves living in Chattanooga, a city known for its beauty and amazing outdoor locations. And of course, Chattanooga is home to one of ATECH’s five locations across Tennessee.


Will’s enthusiasm to learn new things and his years of experience in the kitchen equipment repair industry are some of the traits that make him a perfect fit for ATECH. We’re proud to have him represent this company and look forward to watching our customers benefit from his skill set and experience.

By markl March 20, 2024
As the season changes and springtime blooms, it's the perfect opportunity to refresh and rejuvenate your restaurant space. Spring cleaning isn't just about tidying up; it's about ensuring a safe, welcoming environment for your patrons and staff. In this blog post, we'll explore some essential tips and best practices for restaurant cleanliness in the springtime.  Embrace Deep Cleaning : Spring cleaning is the ideal time to tackle those deep cleaning tasks that may have been neglected during the busier seasons. From scrubbing floors and walls to deep cleaning kitchen equipment, thorough sanitation ensures a hygienic environment for food preparation and service. Focus on High-Traffic Areas : Pay special attention to high-traffic areas such as dining areas, restrooms, and entryways. These areas are prone to accumulating dirt, dust, and germs, making regular cleaning essential for maintaining a pristine appearance and preventing the spread of illness. Refresh Outdoor Spaces : If your restaurant has outdoor seating areas, spring is the perfect time to freshen them up. Clean outdoor furniture, sweep away debris, and power wash outdoor surfaces to create an inviting atmosphere for al fresco dining. Check and Replace Equipment Filters : Don't forget to inspect and replace filters in HVAC systems, refrigeration units, and ventilation hoods. Clean filters help maintain air quality and prevent the buildup of contaminants, ensuring a healthy indoor environment for both customers and staff. Engage Staff in Cleaning Initiatives : Encourage staff members to take pride in the cleanliness of the restaurant by involving them in spring cleaning initiatives. Assign specific tasks and provide training on proper cleaning procedures to ensure consistency and effectiveness. Implement Regular Maintenance Schedule : Establish a regular maintenance schedule to keep up with cleaning tasks throughout the year. By incorporating daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning routines, you can maintain a high standard of cleanliness and prevent the accumulation of dirt and grime. Invest in Quality Cleaning Products : Choose cleaning products that are effective yet environmentally friendly. Look for products that are certified as safe for use in foodservice establishments and follow manufacturer recommendations for proper application and usage. Monitor and Adjust Cleaning Protocols : Continuously monitor cleaning protocols and adjust as needed based on feedback, customer traffic, and changing regulations. Regular evaluation ensures that your cleaning practices remain effective and in compliance with industry standards. Spring cleaning is an essential aspect of restaurant maintenance that goes beyond just aesthetics. By implementing thorough cleaning routines, engaging staff members, and investing in quality cleaning products, you can create a safe, hygienic environment that enhances the dining experience for your customers and promotes a healthy work environment for your staff. As you embark on your spring cleaning journey, remember that ATECH is here to support you with a wide range of cleaning and maintenance solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of your restaurant. Happy spring cleaning!
By markl January 26, 2024
Winter is here, and at ATECH, we understand the unique challenges businesses face in keeping their commercial equipment running smoothly during the colder months. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the strategies, tips, and success stories that can help your business navigate winter effortlessly. From equipment maintenance to emergency services, consider this your go-to resource for mastering winter with ATECH. Winter Equipment Maintenance Tips Checklist for Winter-Ready Equipment: Inspect Seals and Gaskets : Ensure a tight seal to prevent cold air leakage. Check Insulation : Evaluate the insulation of walk-in coolers and freezers. Clean and Sanitize : Thoroughly clean and sanitize all equipment surfaces. Temperature Adjustment : Set optimal winter temperatures for each piece of equipment. ATech Maintenance Tips for Different Equipment: Fryers and Grills : Clean and inspect burners for efficient operation. Ice Machines : Check water lines for insulation and replace filters regularly. Heating Systems : Schedule preventive maintenance to optimize efficiency. Electronic Equipment : Keep spaces well-heated and clean to prevent malfunctions. Businesses often grapple with specific equipment failures that can disrupt operations. ATECH understands the challenges posed by heating system malfunctions, electronic equipment performance, and other issues during the colder months. To tackle these common winter-related failures, businesses should prioritize preventive measures. Regular heating system maintenance checks and air filter replacements can prevent malfunctions. For electronic equipment, maintaining ambient room temperature and conducting routine cleaning are key strategies to ensure optimal performance throughout winter. ATECH's Winter Services: A Lifeline for Your Business Winter demands a proactive approach to equipment maintenance, and ATECH stands as the lifeline for businesses navigating the challenges of the season. Our comprehensive winter services go beyond mere repair and include prompt equipment repairs, planned maintenance, and emergency services. With a commitment to same-day service for urgent winter emergencies, ATECH ensures that businesses can rely on swift resolution during critical times. What sets us apart is our team of factory-trained and CFESA-certified technicians, offering not just reliability but a dedicated partnership to keep your business running smoothly through the coldest months. Trust in ATECH, your lifeline in the winter business landscape. Winter doesn't have to be a season of uncertainty for your business. With ATECH by your side, you have a reliable partner dedicated to providing top-notch equipment repairs and maintenance services. Master winter with confidence, knowing that our comprehensive guide and expert services are here to support your business every step of the way. For personalized winter readiness assessments and expert guidance, contact ATECH today. Let's navigate winter together, and keep your business thriving.
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