From Server to Cook: Eric’s career success at SRG

If you’re looking to kickstart a career in the kitchen, server jobs are a great way to get your foot in the door and build experience! With employment of cooks expected to grow faster than other occupations – 15 percent by 2031 – it’s a promising path that offers stability and fun along the way. 

At SRG, our people are at the heart of our business. And one of those people at the heart is longtime team member, Eric Brooks who is testament to how dedication and a positive attitude can help you get to your dream job. Eric works at the Amber Lights community in Tucson AZ, and has been with us for almost 20 years – he’s a big part of the SRG family! He started as a Server and made his way up to become a Cook.

We caught up with Eric to find out what advice he has to offer for those itchin’ to get in the kitchen.

What about the cook job at SRG caught your eye? 

I was born and raised in Tucson and have been cooking most of my life. I learned at a young age how to cook soul food by my lovely mother and aunt – my favorite dish to make is Banana Pudding, yum! Through the years of dining experience as a server, I wanted to learn more about cooking. When SRG hired me, they gave me the opportunity to do both and I worked my way up into the cook job.

What do you enjoy most about your job? 

There’s so much to love about the cooking profession. I’ve enjoyed learning, casually talking with residents and staff members who are friends. I love being able to help in the kitchen in a variety of ways and offer my expertise.

How has SRG supported your career development and what opportunities have you had to progress?

I started my career as a server in the dining room and moved up to the back of the house, working in the kitchen as a cook. 

Through the years of working in the culinary field, I was able to help with different community marketing events, such as our buffets. I grew more confident in my skills in preparing and helping with food presentation. The marketing events we’ve had over these years allowed me to start my own catering business and be good at it! It’s been a rewarding path to becoming a cook.

What's been your most epic moment at the company so far? 

Resident relationships have created defining moments for me. I remember when I started in 2003, there were two residents in particular, who would always say goodbye to me when I was going home and it’s stuck with me ever since. It was like clockwork- they would wave goodbye, and I would wish them a good evening. This went on as our routine for the next three years with these residents waving me good evening. The resident relationships we build are why we’re here and the residents mean a lot to me.

What makes SRG different from any other company? 

It has felt truly rewarding being able to learn and grow in my department and be able to be myself.

But it’s not all about work. There’s a lot of care that has gone into supporting my personal growth and well-being, with initiatives and resources to help achieve a healthy work-life balance.

Any other parting wisdom?

Give yourself a chance in life, cause anything is possible!

Ready for a career that goes beyond the ordinary?

If you're seeking a rewarding and fulfilling career in dining and food service, applying for a position at SRG Senior Living is an opportunity you won't want to miss. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your journey, we offer a unique and enriching environment that sets us apart from other employers.

We offer a range of career paths and growth opportunities. Whether you aspire to become a cook, a host, or explore other areas within the industry, at SRG Senior Living we encourage personal and professional development. So start exploring dining and food service jobs today.