Chris Simerda
Solutions Engineer
St. Louis, MO

Proud DEEM Winner
Chris has been recognized for his hard work and dedication as our DEEM (Deliver Excellence in Every Moment) winner in the following months:
Get in Touch with Chris
Q&A with Chris
How long have you been with Rapids?
Since 2007.
What was your favorite project? Why?
MasterCard International. My client’s architect hired an East coast design firm in 2011. After trying to operate within that ineffective design for two years, they decided to completely renovate based on my design.
What was your most challenging project? Why?
Shula’s 347. We had 3 months from concept to opening in a pre-poured space that had no utility connections.
What was your solution?
We finished ahead of schedule and under budget.
What do you like to do on a Sunday afternoon?
Spend time with family, catch up on yard work, and cook.
If we gave you next week off, what would you do with your time?
Travel with my family.
What was your last “oh my god this is perfect” meal?
I think it would be everyplace I dined while in New Orleans.
What is your best dish?
People always ask me to make my BBQ shrimp or my secret chicken wing sauce.
RESUME
Professional Experience
Company Name: Rapids & Affiliates
Position: Contract and Design Specialist | Project Manager | Solutions Engineer
Duration: Jun 2007– Present
Responsibilities: Commercial Foodservice Design and Equipment Layouts. Engineered Commercial Foodservice Equipment Systems (Exhaust Hoods, Walk in Units, Utility Distribution Walls). Foodservice Interiors/Furniture Layout, Project Management, Foodservice Equipment Sales.
Company Name: Parc Provence
Position: Director of Food and Beverage
Duration: Mar 2004 – Jun 2007
Responsibilities: Develop Menus and Dietary Program, oversee dietary health of patients, Implement procedures for foodservice safety.
Company Name: Element Productions
Position: Executive Chef
Duration: Jan 2000 – Apr 2004
Responsibilities: Develop specialized menus for Haute Cuisine programs. Provide classes/training for culinary students. Consultant to private restaurateurs for foodservice operations
Projects
References & Testimonials
"Chris is ALWAYS going above and beyond to assist our facility in our equipment needs. His vast product knowledge and professionalism make him a pleasure to deal with during the daunting task of kitchen equipment purchasing...he still continues to exceed the expectations of our residents and myself."
"Chris is a great guy, always willing to help out when needed. He has helped me...for budgeting purposes and reach out to the proper people when I needed help writing a grant...He is always willing to think outside the box and will make recommendations to help you get the most use out of the space you have available."
"Chris Simerda is among the group of individuals who we are fortunate enough to call a part of our team...He has always been very diligent about servicing our needs and maintains a very professional attitude...is one of the most trustworthy individuals with whom we work. Whenever an equipment need arises, Chris is typically the first person we contact. He's never steered us wrong..."
"Working with Chris on the renovation of our client's corporate cafeteria was a breath of fresh air. He worked with us from the beginning design stages, planning the improved efficiency and flow of the café, all the way through the final installation of the kitchen equipment. He is knowledgeable, organized and a great team member, ensuring that our project was completed in a timely manner....I look forward to working with them again in the future."
"Chris is always willing to help out where needed. His project has been flawless and is willing to do whatever it takes to get a job done right! He has excellent customer service, takes care of all customers professionally...is very well organized, easily reachable and always on time."
"Chris Simerda is a helpful, knowledgeable representative who responds to my inquiries in a prompt, thorough manner. I find his pricing to be competitive...Chris has all the qualities us Purchasing folks look for in a sales rep!"
"Working a project with Chris is always a pleasant experience! His attention to detail, quick responsiveness, extensive knowledge and understanding of workflow helps to make any commercial foodservice project run smoothly. He is eager to find a solution that will be the most economical and efficient for his customers, while giving them a great finished product. I would highly recommend Chris if you are looking to make changes to your foodservice space!!"
"Chris is an awesome partner to have! As our foodservice segment grows, he is always ready for anything I need, be it new equipment, questions about repairs, or where to find parts. He quickly responds to anything I need and I would recommend him to anyone looking for equipment or guidance in what is best for your concept."
How about the rest of us?































LET'S FIND YOUR SOLUTION
Rapids Contract & Design serves the United States with locations in Iowa, Minnesota, and Missouri. Our experts are ready to assist with your foodservice needs—contact us for support, Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM CST.
or call (800) 899-6604
