EMMA MACPHERSON
Traverse City,MI
Summary
Versatile and dependable professional with hands-on experience in customer service, retail management, and working with the public. Skilled in leading teams, training staff, and independently managing daily operations to deliver exceptional service and maintain efficient workflows. Adept at inventory management, organizing high-traffic environments. Strong communicator with a talent for engaging diverse audiences, excellent interpersonal skills, and problem-solving adaptability. Passionate about leveraging a broad skill set in fast-paced, creative, and customer-centric roles to contribute value and exceed expectations.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Fabricator Assistant
Green Anvil. Walter Lee
04.2023 - Current
- Assisted in building and installing custom museum and university exhibits, working alongside a professional fabricator in a woodshop environment.
- Operated woodworking tools and machinery, safely cutting and prepping materials for display construction.
- Moved and set up exhibit components, ensuring safe transport and proper installation at client locations.
- Helped organize, load, and maintain inventory, supporting efficient production and on-time project delivery.
- Adapted to changing project needs and collaborated closely with the lead fabricator to execute creative exhibit solutions.
Tour Guide
Dougherty Mission House
04.2023 - 10.2025
- Welcomed and oriented guests at the historic Dougherty House, providing engaging tours and sharing Old Mission Peninsula’s unique history with visitors of all ages.
- Handled admissions, managed daily finances, and recorded guest attendance to support grant proposals.
- Cataloged and preserved historic objects, collaborating on board initiatives to improve the home’s preservation and visitor experience.
- Led field trips and large group tours, tailoring presentations and activities for school groups and tour bus visitors.
- Independently opened and closed the historic site, ensuring its security and readiness each day while maintaining a welcoming environment.
Manager
Third Coast Fruit
04.2023 - 08.2025
- Managed summer operations at Third Coast Fruit, overseeing a small team and daily cherry sales in a high-traffic, seasonal environment.
- Recruited, hired, and onboarded seasonal staff, building a reliable team that communicated well and supported each other during busy festival weeks.
- Led setup and daily operations of the Cherry Festival booth while running the orchard, balancing inventory, cash handling, and customer service across both locations.
- Resolved customer questions and issues with a calm, friendly approach, helping visitors feel welcomed and encouraging repeat business.
Barista
Great Lakes Chocolate & Dessert Co.
09.2024 - 01.2025
- Crafted espresso drinks and specialty beverages with care, creating a welcoming experience for every customer.
- Managed all aspects of daily store operations independently, from opening and closing to ensuring the café was inviting and well-stocked.
- Packed and prepared customer orders with attention to detail, ensuring accuracy and prompt service.
- Tracked inventory and supplies, keeping products fresh and readily available for busy shifts.
- Greeted guests, answered questions, and resolved issues to deliver outstanding service and keep customers coming back.
Sales Associate
Rocket Fizz Soda Pop & Candy Shops
03.2018 - 09.2020
- Created a fun, welcoming atmosphere by greeting customers, answering questions.
- Managed inventory from ordering to cataloging and restocking, keeping shelves full, organized, and easy to shop.
- Opened and closed the store independently, reconciling daily sales, securing cash, and ensuring all locks and alarms were in place.
- Kept the store looking great by tidying displays, straightening product, and refreshing high-traffic areas throughout each shift.
- Answered phones and assisted with special requests, making sure customers felt taken care of.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Art And Design
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, MI05-2025
Associate of Science - Art And Science
Northwestern Michigan College
Traverse City, MI05-2022
Skills
- Customer service and guest relations
- Leadership and independent work
- Inventory management and organization
- Problem-solving and adaptability
- Exhibit and fabrication support (woodworking, safe handling/installing museum displays)
- Visual art creation
- Teamwork and cooperation
Timeline
Barista
Great Lakes Chocolate & Dessert Co.
09.2024 - 01.2025
Fabricator Assistant
Green Anvil. Walter Lee
04.2023 - Current
Tour Guide
Dougherty Mission House
04.2023 - 10.2025
Manager
Third Coast Fruit
04.2023 - 08.2025
Sales Associate
Rocket Fizz Soda Pop & Candy Shops
03.2018 - 09.2020
Bachelor of Arts - Art And Design
University of Michigan
Associate of Science - Art And Science
Northwestern Michigan College