A Walk Through the Details – My Learning in Ware Wash

Today was one of those days that reminded me why I still enjoy being in operations after all these years.

With my recent move to Ware Wash, I had the opportunity to do a detailed walk-around of the East Wing (EW) Warewash area, this time alongside my leader. It turned out to be more than just a routine inspection – it became a real-time learning experience.

What struck me most was how attentively my leader approached the walk. With years of industry experience behind him, he didn’t just point out issues – he demonstrated how to look. It wasn’t about checking boxes. It was about noticing what others often overlook.

We came across several non-compliances. Food waste stuck in machine trays, stickers and packaging mixed with dirty dishes, cutlery that hadn’t been properly separated, and some areas beneath the machines that clearly hadn’t been cleaned in a while. None of it was shocking – but it was revealing.

These are things that should be cleaned throughout the shift, not just at the end. And while the tasks might seem small, together they paint a picture – one that can either reflect discipline and ownership or carelessness and neglect.

Later, we continued our walk in the West Wing Warewash. Although machine cleanliness there was somewhat acceptable, other issues stood out. There were water puddles on the floor – a potential safety hazard. But more concerning was the lack of visible supervision. We didn’t see foremen on the floor overseeing key activities like machine operation, equipment handling, or cleanliness checks. My leader emphasized the importance of people truly performing their roles and responsibilities – not just being present, but actively engaging with the work.

For me, the biggest takeaway from today wasn’t just about machines or messes. It was about presence. Leadership presence. Staff presence. My own presence.

I left the shift with a sense of engagement – and even a quiet sense of gratitude. Grateful for a leader who models how to lead. Grateful for the opportunity to learn. And grateful to be in a role where I still find meaning in the small details.

This is just the beginning of my Ware Wash journey. But if today is a sign of what’s ahead, I feel encouraged.