Are you detail oriented, have excellent people skills and love a challenge? If so, a career in food management might be that perfect job you've been looking for.

"The great thing about the food industry is that prior experience isn't always required," said Craig Dickens, general manager at Ale House (2122 Mildred St. W., Tacoma). "In fact, most food management careers don't begin in management, they begin with entry-level positions."

Mike Ness, general manager of Denny's (6112 100th St. S.W., Lakewood) agrees.

"That's a good thing, because we usually promote from within," he said. "Whether you start out as a dishwasher or a server, there are so many career avenues available that room to grow is nearly limitless."

Ness, a former Army sergeant who served nine years in the military, was hired despite having no prior restaurant or food industry experience. This year marks his 16-year anniversary.

"If you have department store or retail experience, those skills are transferable, too," said Dickens. "Even if you're fresh out of high school, you can make a great salary and gain on-the-job training."

Dickens and four of his employees have been at the same Ale House location for 12 years. He believes it's challenging but rewarding work, and if you're willing to put in the work, advancement can come quickly.

"If you're not careful, you might enjoy it so much you'll become a lifer," Dickens said, chuckling.

Both Dickens and Ness agree that opportunities are available cross-industry and cross-career, and that's why food management careers are thriving. Ness also underscores that it's a highly portable job and great for military families.

"If you're down to earth and can have a conversation about anything, you'll be successful," said Ness. "There are some intangible things you can't teach, and in this industry that's one of them."

According to Ness, Denny's has one of the most intense and comprehensive training programs in the industry, and because it's a 24-hour business and "shifts never truly end," its food management employees are uniquely qualified to work anywhere - and usually highly sought after by competitors.

"The most rewarding thing is to have a client tell you their dining experience was perfect," said Ness, "and that's what it's all about."

It doesn't matter if you begin in an entry-level position, have a management certificate or degree, are switching career fields and have no restaurant-related experience, a food management career can be attained via multiple models.