Profile-Jeff Bullis

Who: Jeff Bullis
What: Culinary Student
Where: Corvallis Oregon
When: Present
Why:A fellow student at LBCC
How to get involved: Contact LBCC culinary program College Center, room 214 Phone: 541-917-4391 Instructors: Scott Anselm or John Jarschke

After 27 years as an engineering technician for the American corporation Hewlett- Packard, Jeff Bullis’ job was shipped over seas to Argentina. After losing his job, Bullis decided to follow his true passion by enrolling in the culinary program at Linn-Benton Community College.

“I have always loved cooking and decided years ago that when I retired I would attend culinary school to become a chef.” Bullis said. “His true passion for cooking drives him to do so well.” Bullis' fiancée Lori Davis said.

Bullis' son, Jeremy Bullis said, “Dad is always practicing different kinds of foods. Our house always stinks of weird things he is trying out.”

When asked how attending LBCC's culinary program has enhanced his skill prior to enrolling he said, “The program at LBCC has prepared me for a culinary profession. It has taught me cooking methodology. It has greatly expanded my knowledge of industry practices and standards, and has been responsible for creating in me a deep desire to produce quality food products.” As Bullis finishes the last year of his degree, he has earned the position of Culinary Club president.

Bullis graduates June of this year and is purchasing a pizzeria chain, called Nick n' Willy’s, to start his career and put his degree to use. ”Well, originally I thought I was buying myself a job. Further education has taught me that I'm actually creating a new business. I'm excited about the pizza industry and what I can create with that business.” Bullis' plan to get his business started for the future is to expand his pizza line to four stores and then switch to a finer style restaurant in Idaho.

By finally doing what he loves Bullis, couldn’t imagine still working at Hewlett-Packard. Cooking is where his heart truly lies, but Bullis offered up advice for people who are considering going into the culinary field. “Don’t bother if you don't have true passion for food and providing for your customer the experience that they will never forget.”

Photo source: Jeff Bullis