Walt Ehmer

Walt Ehmer was a respected corporate leader whose legacy was built on humility, hard work, and servant leadership. With a degree in industrial engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology and a career that spanned over three decades at Waffle House, Walt exemplified what it means to lead by example. He began as a senior buyer in 1992 and rose through the ranks to become co-president and COO in 2006, CEO in 2012, and chairman in 2022. Yet despite his titles, he proudly wore a nametag that simply read: “Walt Ehmer: Customer Service.”

Walt's leadership philosophy was forged in the restaurants themselves—washing dishes, cooking bacon, and connecting with associates. He believed leadership was about service, not status, and made it his mission to stay grounded in the everyday operations of the company. His ability to inspire and unite others made him a beloved figure both inside and outside the organization.

Beyond the walls of Waffle House, Walt was a dedicated community servant and a lifelong champion of education, healthcare, and civic leadership. He served on numerous boards, including the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Foundation, the Atlanta Police Foundation, Aaron’s, and the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce. A devoted Georgia Tech alumnus, he held key leadership roles across the Institute, including chair of the Alumni Association and trustee of the Georgia Tech Foundation.

Above all, Walt considered his greatest legacy to be his family—especially his three children, all proud Georgia Tech graduates. A true servant-leader, Walt left behind a model of excellence rooted in humility, integrity, and unwavering dedication to others.