How did you get your current good food job?
How did your previous work or life experience prepare you for a good food job?
My experience in the corporate world has been incredibly helpful to me in all the jobs I've held in the cheese industry. I received training in project management that has been applicable across every job I've had in the food world. I'm also thankful that I started in the corporate world where there are lots of systems and rules that dictate how things get done. Even though systems and rules can seem limiting I found that having that foundation and a degree of professionalism has helped me get the good food jobs I've had and to be a better advocate for myself and any staff that I've managed. It has also helped me to ferret out food and hospitality companies that see value in fostering a positive work environment - something that I've not found to be universal in the industry.
What advice do you have for others in search of a good food job?
Drawing from my experience I would tell people not to panic if the path they are on doesn't have a crystal clear end point. Also - it will help you a lot if you can define those things that are most important to you in a job whether it is needing to be paid a certain amount of money, working with people you like, learning a specific skill, having access to experts, being part of a mindful food community, fame - whatever it is, knowing those things for yourself helps you refine your search and evaluate opportunities before you take them and even once you're in them.
If you could be compensated for your work with something other than money, what would it be?
I would probably work for eggs from pastured chickens alone but as Snoop Dogg once said, 'Dream big, you might never wake up.' So I'd also love to have my own personal tutor to help me master gardening, beekeeping, French, and Spanish.