If you’ve ever enjoyed a jar of our nut butter, chances are Shannon had a hand in making it. As a Production Associate at Ground Up, Shannon does everything from mixing and filling jars to labeling and cleaning—but her impact goes far beyond the production line. Having journeyed through our training program herself, Shannon now serves as a mentor to newer team members, leading by example and helping others discover their own strength. 

Read on to hear more about Shannon's story + how she likes to enjoy her favorite flavor: Snickerdoodle! 

What job duties does your day-to-day look like at Ground Up?

Mixing and filling and labeling - with mixing I feel like I'm a part of something bigger than myself. I get to taste the finished product that I helped make from making the product to labeling jars and cleaning the space after.

What do you like most about working at Ground Up?

I like feeling accomplished at the end of the day. I have a daily quota or goal to accomplish that keeps me motivated and focused. I try to make games out of tasks and duties at work like comparing how long it took me to label jars compared to yesterday. I guess it's physical proof of my growth at work.  

How has your experience at Ground Up been?

It's been relatively positive - I have regained a sense of stability that I have not felt in a long time and a sense of accomplishment. A sense of independence and self-reliance. On days where I feel like I can't rely on myself to stay positive I can rely on my team to help. 

What is the community like at Ground Up?

Encouraging! Everyone is positive but also we are able to practice professional boundaries, communication, and building each other up. 

What do you like to do for fun outside of Ground Up?

I like being creative and making things like stickers and pin buttons. I love doing crafts with my grandkids, we have made several different projects together. 

How do you stay motivated as a person to complete goals or tasks?

I try to be playful with my tasks, I make work fun or entertaining for myself to pass the time. It’s not hard to do, I enjoy the physical task and repetition of working in production.  

How has your experience changed from starting with the apprenticeship and now being a part of the permanent staff at GU?

With being a staff member I feel more of a responsibility to be a mentor and lead by example for the apprentices. I want to help them find the strength in themselves, I think about how I can share my experiences and knowledge with them. 

What’s your favorite Ground Up nut butter flavor and way to eat it?

Snickerdoodle with apples and bananas.