John Tinsley
Vice President and Co-Founder at Therm
John Tinsley
John Tinsley is Vice President and Co-Founder at Therm, where he leads partnerships connecting high-impact climate projects with investors committed to measurable, immediate action. At Therm, John advances practical climate solutions across sectors ranging from food waste reduction to food supply chain refrigerant management. He’s passionate about turning climate ambition into data-driven, tangible emissions reductions and helping companies invest where results matter most.
Biography
As Executive Chef Director of Nutrition Services for Cheney Public Schools since 2015, LJ has revolutionized K-12 dining by creating scratch-made, nutritious meals while championing sustainable practices to minimize food waste. His innovative approaches inspire students to embrace healthy, eco-conscious food choices. Beyond schools, LJ consults nationwide, collaborating with early childhood programs, the Washington Fire Chiefs Association to integrate sustainable menus into fire stations, and the Department of Defense to educate military families. As the founder of Richland Community College’s Culinary Arts Institute, he empowered future chefs to prioritize sustainability.
On the panel, LJ will share practical strategies to combat food waste, drawing on his servant leadership philosophy and culinary expertise. Using food as a universal language, he’ll challenge attendees to rethink waste through purpose-driven solutions, from community kitchens to institutional reforms, inspiring actionable change for a more sustainable future.
Sessions
2/24/26
9am-Rising Collection Costs- Celebrity Ballroom
2/25/26
11am- Food Waste in Education- Celebrity E
