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Darren Williams, a Chicago West Side native with a background in the restaurant industry, made a remarkable and unplanned transition into the cannabis sector. What began as a curiosity about marijuana in high school evolved into a passion for its medicinal properties and culinary use.
In conversation, Darren is lighthearted and easy to talk to. He admits that the stigma surrounding cannabis hit him early in life when he was nicknamed “Towlie,” a talking towel character from the wildly popular cartoon South Park, known for his glazed, bloodshot eyes. “Kids used to always say I looked like I was smoking weed. I was in the third grade—I didn’t even know what it was, I was just a kid,” he shared.
It wasn’t until later that he began experimenting with cannabis, particularly during stressful finals.
“Around 2014, my friends and I would get out of school early, and I was for sure skeptical about using cannabis," Darren said. "But I gave it a try, and to my surprise, I liked it. When I graduated high school, I went on to culinary school, and that’s where I met true stoners. Every Tuesday became our 'Tuesday Special.' We experimented with putting food and weed together, and that was the beginning of a delicious journey that blended my passion for cooking with the world of cannabis."
In 2019, a friend introduced him to a dispensary job opening. This opportunity marked the beginning of Darren's professional journey in the cannabis industry.
Darren’s career trajectory has been impressive. Starting as a retail associate budtender in 2020, he quickly climbed the ranks to become the assistant general manager of Mission Dispensary's South Shore location at 8524 S. Commercial Avenue by 2024.
“A friend called me and told me a dispensary was hiring. I took a chance, and I don’t regret it at all,” Darren said.
His story highlights the unique opportunities within the burgeoning cannabis industry, particularly for those willing to learn and adapt.
Meeting the Needs of Diverse Customers
When asked about the average dispensary customer, Darren explained that many people, including seniors, are brand new to cannabis and retail store shopping.
“We see a lot of age groups coming into the dispensary. For our seniors, our support is really valuable. We assist them over the phone with directions and explanations about some of the products. We’ll take our time to help them understand how to become a medical patient, and we assist them in using the touchscreens to order,” Darren said.
Darren’s pivot into the cannabis industry was unplanned, but his story provides valuable insight for those hoping to find their foothold in 2025. Here’s what Darren’s journey teaches us:
1. Leverage Your Existing Skills and Experience
Darren’s background in culinary arts provided a strong foundation for his transition into cannabis. He utilized his expertise in food preparation and customer service to incorporate cannabis into culinary creations. Whether you come from food service, retail, or another field, identify the transferable skills that can enhance your role in the cannabis industry.
2. Embrace Continuous Learning
The cannabis industry is still evolving, making ongoing education crucial. Darren emphasizes the importance of self-education—he didn’t take formal courses. Depending on your desired role, you may need additional formal training. Attend workshops, read books, and engage with industry professionals to deepen your understanding of cannabis products and their applications. For Darren, the employment opportunity provided the perfect transition from one industry to another.
3. Build Community Relationships
One of Darren's notable achievements has been his focus on customer service and community engagement. He recognized the diverse customer base, including seniors, and tailored his approach to meet their needs. Building strong relationships is key to any successful endeavor. Whether through personalized service or community events, prioritize creating a welcoming environment—this is an industry where corporate compassion matters.
Beyond the Bud
Darren Williams’ journey from the restaurant industry to the cannabis sector highlights the potential for growth, innovation, and career advancement. As Darren and his team prepare for the new year, clearing out inventory and starting fresh, he offers a reminder for those who think dispensaries only sell cannabis.
“For people that don’t consume cannabis, we have t-shirts, apparel, book bags, candles, puzzles, coloring books, odds and ends, and all sorts of things for creatives,” he said.
Darren’s story is proof that passion, adaptability, and a willingness to learn can open doors to success in emerging industries.
Dr. Mila Marshall is an environmental professional and journalist with a passion for advancing sustainability in all sectors. Her passion is directed towards urban food systems in segregated cities.