Kristopher James joined the SRE team in October 2023, bringing with him a wealth of experience from the construction and culinary worlds. Before his tenure at SRE, Kristopher owned a general contracting business, specializing in kitchen and bath remodels and new home construction. His hands-on expertise in building and design has been a valuable asset to our team, especially in understanding the intricate needs of commercial kitchen spaces.

A Spokane native, Kristopher’s passion for culinary arts led him to graduate from The Culinary Institute of America at the Hyde Park campus in 2005. His talent and dedication were quickly recognized, and he served as a teaching Fellow at the Caterina de Medici restaurant on campus immediately after graduation. Kristopher’s journey in the culinary field is marked by notable achievements, including being part of the management team at Casa Mono in NYC, where he contributed to the restaurant earning its first Michelin Star in 2009.

Kristopher’s commitment to service and community is evident from his time as the Director of Food Services at Union Gospel Mission Spokane. His love for gastronomy is further underscored by earning his certified sommelier certificate in 2014, which paved the way for him to be on the opening staff of prominent Spokane establishments such as Inland Pacific Kitchen, Hogwash Whiskey Den, and Helix tasting room. His expertise in wines was showcased at the James Beard House dinner in 2016, themed “Washington State of Mind,” where he served as sommelier.

Outside the kitchen, Kristopher is an avid fly fisherman with a deep appreciation for the great outdoors. He spends his free time exploring the trout waters of the west, casting into the serene landscapes that reflect his calm and collected approach to both his professional and personal life.

Kristopher’s unique blend of construction savvy, culinary excellence, and his sommelier’s palate bring a seasoned perspective to the SRE team, enriching our company with his diverse skill set and passion for quality.