John Bleidistel

Director of Technology

Education

Business Administration, California State University
Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) certification

How did you arrive here?

I was at Yamaha Motors (southern California) when I realized that technology was my passion. I went to school in the evenings to get my Microsoft certification. Consulting brought me to Missouri and I was an IT specialist for over a decade. I had known Shawn (CEO) for years and was watching Pro Food Systems grow from the sidelines. In 2009, Shawn and I were discussing the technology growth and future needs of Pro Food Systems. Shortly after, I was asked to join the team and the rest is history!

What’s the one problem you are best at solving for your clients?

I enjoy dealing with complex systems and solutions. When something goes wrong, I enjoy working through the situation.

What would be impossible for you to give up?

I would have a big problem giving up managing technology. I’ve had my hat in many areas at Pro Food Systems, but the tech side is what I really enjoy.

As a child, what did you wish to become when you grew up?

A Forest Ranger. I really enjoyed camping with my family every summer and that “outdoorsman” part has still stuck with me to this day.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?

I’m an Eagle Scout. I met that challenge as a teenager and I’ve always been glad I did!

Name a funny/unusual job from your past:

I did a short stint at Farmers Bros Coffee, cutting open gunny sacks of various coffee beans from other countries. It was interesting, however, because you’d occasionally find coins and other artifacts amongst the coffee beans from countries in South America and Africa.