Graduation Date: December 2001
Major: Food Science and Technology
What is your current position?
I am the vice president of International Research and Development for International Dairy Queen.
How did your time in CASNR shape your career path?
Attaining my degree in food science was key to finding a fun and rewarding career in which I could grow. The food industry provides a myriad of different areas to work, so it never gets boring, and it is relatively stable because everyone has to eat!
What is the most fulfilling aspect of your job?
I most enjoy leading others in creating new products across the globe, while growing in their careers.
What activities were you involved in during your time at UNL?
I was involved in the Food Science Club.
What is your best memory of your time in CASNR?
My best memories are meeting lifelong friends and spending time with brilliant professors.
How did CASNR prepare you for your life outside of work?
There will always be a need for food scientists, especially as we face challenges with food production, efficiency and sustainability. I feel my education from the University of Nebraska prepared me to face these challenges and to be able to impact food globally.
What do you think IANR and CASNR contribute to Nebraska, the United States and the world?
Education in the agricultural field has always been and will continue to be invaluable in the future of our world. IANR and CASNR prepare students to work in this field and will help move us forward with more sustainable agricultural practices, increased productivity and meeting the increasing need to feed the world.
What is your one piece of advice for current CASNR students?
Consider a career in the food industry. We are always in need of strong team members and there is much room to grow in this field. My education and subsequent experience have allowed me to work for both small and large companies, supporting some of the largest brands in the world. I have had the chance to travel domestically and internationally. I have also been able to grow significantly in this field, starting out as a lab technician and gaining leadership skills to lead large teams of food scientists, commercialization experts, packaging engineers, chefs and project managers. I encourage you to explore and join the food industry for a fun and fulfilling career with no limits!