Our Instructors

Our program provides food safety training, exams, and educational materials to foodservice managers. In addition, students can earn an ANSI-accredited certification through the American National Standards Institute. Furthermore, ANSI-accredited exams carry approval from the Conference for Food Protection (CFP).

The program blends the latest FDA Food Code with current food safety research and years of hands-on training experience. As a result, foodservice managers learn to implement essential food safety practices and build a culture of safety. All content and materials are based on actual job tasks identified by foodservice industry experts.

Trust the only food safety program with roots in the foodservice industry. We help you protect customer health, improve employee performance, and preserve your business reputation. Learn more about our CFPM certification program or register for a class today.

John Gescheidle
John Gescheidle — Founder & Lead Instructor

John Gescheidle has dedicated his 25-year career to the hospitality industry, specifically in education and training. He began his career with the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, where he worked directly on the development and marketing of food safety and alcohol awareness programs.

Since then, John has taught in hospitality and continuing education programs at the post-secondary level. His expertise centers on developing and implementing all of the training programs that Foodservice Safe offers. Currently, he holds approval as a sanitation instructor and proctor for the National Restaurant Association, the Illinois Department of Public Health, and the Wisconsin Department of Public Health.

In addition, John teaches the Illinois BASSET program through the Illinois Liquor Control Commission and the TIPS program through Health Communication. In 2017, he completed coursework to become an AllerTrain Certified Master Trainer. His commitment to the industry also reflects in his membership with the Illinois Foodservice Executives Association, the Illinois Environmental Health Association, and the Illinois Hotel and Lodging Association.

John holds a Bachelor of Science from Kendall College in Chicago, IL, and a Master’s degree from Regis University in Denver, Colorado.

Colleen Nyland — Food Safety Instructor

Colleen Nyland is a food safety instructor certified with the Illinois Department of Public Health and through ServSafe. Since 2009, she has served as an Adjunct Instructor with Elgin Community College’s Culinary and Hospitality Program. Similarly, she has taught for Northern Illinois University’s Hospitality Administration program since 2005.

Her previous roles include Strategic Marketing Manager with Tyson Foods, Director of the Illinois Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, Marketing Director for the Women’s Foodservice Forum, and Food Service Director with Aramark Corporation.

Colleen Nyland
Abel Ramirez — Spanish Language Instructor

Abel Ramirez brings a passion for the hospitality industry and extensive experience in both front- and back-of-house operations. Specifically, he has worked for leading hospitality companies including MGM Resorts International, Marriott Hotels and Resorts, and SLS Hotels. He holds a Master’s Degree in Hospitality Administration from the University of Nevada Las Vegas. Currently, Abel teaches Spanish food safety classes at Lambs Farm in Libertyville for Foodservice Safe.

Ben Olson — Certified Master Trainer

Ben Olson brings decades of experience in the foodservice and training industry. He serves as your “Learning Tour Guide” throughout the food safety training experience. His certifications include ATD Certified Master Trainer and Facilitator, Certified ServSafe Instructor and Proctor, and Certified Professional of Food Safety (CP-FS). In addition, Ben is a published author.