College Student Career Program at IPE: Develop a vision

09-02-2010 | |

In business it is essential for employees to create value and establish a good name for themselves, according to Dan T. Cathy, president and COO of Chick-fil-A, and keynote speaker at the College Student Career Program during the 2010 International Poultry Expo.

He addressed nearly 300 students from 24 universities throughout the nation.

Cathy encouraged students to become valuable within the business world by developing a vision, understanding history, and evolving. “My father Truett Cathy had a vision. He created the chicken sandwich in 1946 at the Dwarf House Grill in Hapeville, GA,” said Cathy. “To thrive in business, it is important to understand history and learn the principles and importance of good choices and decisions from other people and companies.”

“Individuals need to brand their names, just as companies brand their products, so that it stands for something. Have enthusiasm, make valuable decisions, and create substance. Stay current by embracing change while conducting business with honor, integrity and respect,” he said.

As president of one of the nation’s largest family owned restaurant businesses, Dan Cathy represents the second generation of leadership for the Atlanta-based quick-service chicken restaurant chain founded by his father.

The College Student Career Program is part of USPOULTRY’s student outreach efforts. Held annually during the Expo, graduating students interview for jobs and internships with industry and allied firms. They also visit the exhibit floor to complement their studies by seeing the latest technology and new innovations in today’s poultry and egg production and processing operations.

Cathy was welcomed by Jim Perdue, president and CEO of Perdue Farms. Perdue participated in the student awards program, including presenting the annual Frank Perdue Scholarship to Student of the Year, Hannah Atkins, Pennsylvania State University.

Source: U.S. Poultry & Egg Association

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Kinsley
Natalie Kinsley Freelance journalist