Produce Quiz Winner: JOE WAPO

Sysco Chicago
Produce QC Manager
Chicago, IL

Transitioning into the produce industry wasn’t originally part of Joe Wapo’s plan, but it has become a rewarding career.

Currently transitioning from a quality control inspector to quality control manager at one of Sysco’s Fresh Point facilities in Chicago, IL, Wapo plays a vital role in ensuring product quality.

His position requires a hands-on approach and attention to detail.

“I am constantly checking for potential problems in our inbound product, as well as products in our cooler to mitigate shrink and maximize customer satisfaction,” says Wapo. “I use all five of my senses daily and consistently, so anyone entering this industry in the capacity of a quality control should expect to do the same.”

With a background in inventory management, he was approached about joining Sysco’s produce department, despite having little knowledge of fresh produce.

“I was very hesitant to make the transition,” he says. “My supervisor at the time convinced me otherwise. Four years later, I feel very much at home in this field.”

One of the greatest rewards, they say, is that no two days are ever alike. “I learn something new every day, and no day is exactly the same.”

Wapo says outside of work, there’s not much downtime. “Spare time? What’s that? Currently, my coworkers and I enjoy submitting entries in your monthly quiz so that, in the off-chance one of us wins, we can continue our cascading banana-phone profile picture.”

He also credits Produce Business with helping him grow professionally.

“The magazine provides a unique perspective of the produce industry,” he says. “This was a useful tool when I was starting out in this field.”