Externship Experience for Local Teachers

Day three kick-off with department managers - each morning began with introducing Shawn to the departments and getting to know the team before touring. From left to right: Brad Huff (assistant kitchen manager), Shawn Cullins (extern) and Chris Cox (kitchen manager) touring the kitchen with Shawn and discussing the recipe prep sheets.

by EMMA SPOON

In June, store #679 in Abilene got involved in their community by hosting an externship event in their store involving local teachers. Joining with local teacher Shawn Cullins, the three-day externship was full of department tours, hands-on training and manager discussions.

Shawn is a special education math teacher at Jim Ned High School in Tuscola, and is a frequent guest at Market Street. A partnership between Market Street and the Workforce Center, the externship allowed Shawn to learn about the skills, culture and training needed to work in the United Family, which he could incorporate into his classroom. In addition, he provided feedback on ways the store could enhance employment opportunities for special education students.

“It was an incredible opportunity for the team to be able to demonstrate their talents and talk about the departments they are so passionate about,” said Samantha Spencer, #679 talent relations manager. “We look forward to continuing to partner with our local schools and sharing our mission of service.”

Ex·tern·ship

A temporary training program in a workplace, especially one offered to teachers/students as part of a course of study.”

On the first day of the externship, Shawn learned about the mission statement: Ultimate Service, Superior Performance and Positive Impact. Shawn received insight on the company’s history, success stories and unique approach to the grocery business.

Shawn got to see store operations, beginning with the guest services counter and working with the front-end leads and making his way to understand the StreetSide department. He learned how to sack groceries, have a carryout conversation with guests, and in-depth details about grocery department operations. Team members showed Shawn the communication process with truck drivers, vendors, business partners, in addition to learning about the Living Well section.

The last day, Shawn took a tour of the food service, concierge, Starbucks, pharmacy, fuel, produce and meat market/seafood departments. He received hands-on demonstrations in the floral, bakery and fresh-cut areas, too. Shawn learned about point-of sale, food safety, signage and partnerships with local non-profit and other organizations that aid the Abilene community.

At the end of the externship, the #679 team hosted a Q&A for Shawn. The team offered ways to help Shawn share the information he learned with his students, in addition to ways to partner in a classroom demonstration.

The United Family is grateful for the Abilene community, especially teachers like Shawn who make the effort to enhance the classroom experience for students and prepare them for life after graduation.