Over the next few months, we will be giving you a sneak peak into the the lives of our team members: who they are, why they love the work that they do, and what they're passionate about.
Today, I'd like you to meet Alexa Ketterling. She works in Sales & Marketing with Centra Foods, working with customers on a daily basis and helping to manage our social media presence.
Tell us about your role at Centra Foods and why you enjoy it.
My role at Centra Foods is a Sales and Marketing Representative. I enjoy working in the sales role because I get to help people with questions they may have, as well as find them the best oil to use for their products. I enjoy the marketing role because it gives me a chance to be creative. I love getting to create or blog videos, and write blogs that will help inspire people.
So what’s next—what’s on the docket for 2016?
What's next for 2016 is to continue to grow in the ability to help others with their needs. To become the best employee and account manager for those I work with. As well as help the team I'm a part of grow and reach our goals.
What excites you about working in the food industry?
What excites me is I am constantly learning new things. Olive oil is a type of food you can constantly learn different ways to use the oil. I also enjoy hearing about the different ways our customers use the oil.
You’ve been with Centra Foods for about a year now. What’s been one of the best initiatives that you’ve seen the team do in the last year?
I would have to say I've seen the team go from working on their own to working together. I think everyone has gotten to the point of all being on the same page and know what we need to do to help this company flourish.
You’re packing for a trip. What five items are always in your bag?
That is a tough one... Probably a book, cellphone, clothes that fit with what the trip is, a charger and a tooth brush.
If you could give to one charity, which one would you give to?
I would give to All For One Foundation. Reason being that they do a great work all around the global by providing food, clothing, etc. for those in need. They truly care about every single person that they come into contact with that is in need.
What is your favorite thing to do in your free time?
In my free time I enjoy relaxing with a book in front of a fire with tea, watching tv/movies, spending time with family and friends. As well as trying things I may have never done before but thought would be fun and exciting.
What is your favorite oil to use in your kitchen at home?
I love using Organic Extra Virgin as well as our Fry Oil. But I always love trying the different types of oil we get as well as see how they cook.
Can you share the recipe to your favorite food?
That would have to be crockpot mac and cheese. You can give the recipe below a try!
Crockpot Mac & Cheese
8 ounces medium shell macaroni
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 cup evaporated milk
½ cup milk
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups (8 ounces) shredded sharp Cheddar cheese or a Cheddar blend
4 tablespoons butter, melted
- Cook the macaroni following package directions. Drain in a colander and rinse with hot water. Drain well.
- Generously butter the sides and bottom of a 3½- to 4-quart slow cooker (I use about 2 tablespoons of butter).
- Combine the macaroni with the remaining ingredients in the slow cooker and blend well.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 2½ to 3½ hours, stirring a few times.
- If desired, spoon the cooked macaroni and cheese mixture into a baking dish, sprinkle with a little more cheese, and put under the broiler for a minute or 2, just until cheese is melted.
- When the macaroni and cheese is done, feel free to spoon into a baking dish, top with a little more cheese, and put under the broiler for a minute or two for that "fresh from the oven" look.
Topics: Suppliers
