Associate Testimonials

I am very proud to say that I have worked at Publix's Jacksonville distribution center for 13 years. When I began my career in 1998, I viewed my warehouse sanitation position as just another job. But as I started to learn more about Publix and all of its opportunities, I put a plan in place to build my career. I made a conscious effort to work in various positions and departments to enhance my skills and gain experience, with my end goal being a position in management.

I took advantage of Jacksonville's career counselor program. Over the course of the program, knowledgeable and thoughtful managers mentored, educated, and showed me that Publix was really about treating each other like family. My counselor also told me during a session to put yourself in a place to be successful. After 13 years I am convinced that Publix is my place. I truly believe that we play a vital role in executing Publix's strategy by committing ourselves to our mission. The family atmosphere and the commitment to our associates are some of the many reasons why I love Publix!

What I love most about Publix is that everyone is like one big family. You are surrounded by people who care about you and that listen to your needs. The Publix family always rallies together in a time of need, whether it's for a fellow associate or someone in the community.

During the hurricane season in 2004, we helped each other and our neighbors and customers through some of the most tragic times ever experienced by some of us—whether it was working long hours to see that our stores had the necessary supplies or just volunteering to clean up and repair damage. Publix also set up a relief fund to help hurricane victims, and associates donated food, clothing, and shelter to those in need. For these reasons, I think Publix is a great place to work.

I feel lucky to be a Publix associate. I started at the Boynton Beach distribution center in November 1989. I remember working with the associates in the office who already had 10 years of service and thought there was no way I was ever going to be employed in one job for that long. Of course, that was almost 23 years ago.

In 1995, I transferred to the Orlando distribution center which brought new opportunities for me because we had just opened a new high-velocity and boxed meat/dairy department. Since I had spent most of my career with Publix as an inventory control coordinator, being able to experience the different warehouses and learn new departments and processes only strengthened my skill set.

Even more great news came in 2005 when Publix decided to add the pharmaceutical distribution warehouse to better serve our stores. It was opened at the Orlando distribution center, allowing me more opportunity to learn and grow.

In 2011, I decided to apply with the state to become a certified designated representative. I passed the test and was accepted by the state, which was a very meaningful personal accomplishment. This also led me to my most recent career move as the compliance and regulatory manager for the Orlando pharmacy distribution center. Mr. George once said, "Publix is like a smorgasbord, with opportunity spread out for you. Prepare yourself; the opportunities are up for grabs." This has been so true in my career and is why I love working at Publix.