Lissa

Dedicated Food Services Professional and certified Early Childhood Educator (ECE Level 1) with over 8 years of combined experience in high-volume kitchens, crisis shelters, early learning centers, and nonprofit organizations. Proven expertise in nutritional menu planning, allergen management, and maintaining strict food safety compliance. Adept at operating in trauma-informed and highly regulated environments while optimizing kitchen workflows, reducing food waste, and managing inventory.

Cook - YWCA Calgary (Crisis Shelter) - Calgary, AB

• Prepare and execute balanced, high-volume meals for shelter residents, ensuring strict adherence to diverse dietary restrictions, food allergies, and cultural preferences.
• Maintain rigorous food safety, sanitation, and kitchen hygiene standards in full compliance with public health regulations and shelter policies.
• Foster a welcoming, trauma-informed dining environment for vulnerable individuals and families in crisis.
• Manage daily kitchen inventory, monitor stock levels to minimize food waste, and coordinate the safe storage of incoming donations and food supplies.

Cook - Willowbrae Academy - Calgary, AB

(2024-01)

• Prepare and serve nutritious, allergy-aware meals tailored to the specific dietary needs of young children.
• Maintain kitchen sanitation and hygiene protocols in strict compliance with provincial childcare regulations.
• Collaborate with early childhood educators to ensure meal services support daily learning routines.
• Communicate consistently with staff regarding child-specific dietary requirements and menu updates.

Cook and Server - Cineplex VIP - Calgary, AB

(2023-01 - 2024-12)

• Operated large-volume cooking equipment to efficiently prepare menu items in a fast-paced entertainment environment.
• Coordinated effectively with kitchen staff to ensure simultaneous and timely meal service.
• Maintained clean, safe, and organized workstations in strict adherence to corporate food safety standards.

Acting Coordinator of Food Services & Assistant to Food Services - Kerby Centre - Calgary, AB

(2018-01 - 2022-12)

• Created balanced cycle menus and managed internal kitchen documentation utilizing the Microsoft Office Suite.
• Monitored inventory levels and conducted COGS analysis, successfully reducing food waste and increasing profit margins.
• Trained new culinary hires on kitchen protocols, occupational health and safety regulations, and operational workflow.
• Collaborated with the marketing department to produce promotional materials, public menus, and event content.

Peer Support Worker - Kerby Rotary Shelter - Calgary, AB

(2020-01 - 2021-12)

• Provided critical peer support and enrichment programs to senior residents during COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns.
• Delivered basic health, wellness, and nutrition education to vulnerable populations.
• Assisted social workers and case managers with daily shelter operations and resident care initiatives.

Bachelor of General Studies - Undergraduate Arts and Science Program - Athabasca University (2022-01)

Culinary Apprenticeship Program - Culinary Arts - Alberta Apprenticeship Board