The med center community is invited to celebrate the retirement of Rick Contreras at a reception on Sept. 7, his last day on campus.
The celebration runs from 1:30 to 3 p.m. in the Truhlsen Events Center in the Sorrell Center.
Contreras, a zone facility technician in Facilities Management and Planning, began working for Clarkson Hospital in 1974 as a dishwasher in the kitchen. He later became a cook’s helper and then was sent to the Omaha Culinary Academy, where he received his chef certification and was promoted to lead cook.
He later became the Food Service Purchasing lead in charge of the dietary storeroom and, eventually, was recruited to the maintenance department, where he remained for several years. Upon merger of Clarkson/UNMC, an apprenticeship opportunity opened, and Contreras had the option of advancement while keeping his years of seniority with Clarkson. He received his associate’s degree in construction technology and has served 25 years with Clarkson and 23 years with UNMC.