Isabella Degner
Durham,NC
Summary
Dynamic and detail-oriented professional with a decade of experience in food & beverage service and six years in video production, delivering consistently exceptional guest experiences in fast-paced environments. Proven ability to maintain high standards of quality and efficiency, ensuring seamless operations and customer satisfaction. A strong commitment to excellence drives the pursuit of innovative solutions and effective communication within diverse teams. Prepared to leverage a unique blend of skills to positively contribute to future endeavors.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Server & Sound
Helium Comedy
01.2026 - Current
- Delivered exceptional service for 40 guests at a time in the fast-paced comedy venue environment.
- Managed orders via iPad while communicating with patrons, ensuring accuracy and timely delivery.
- Executed high-speed sanitization and restocking between shows along with sidework, opening, and closing duties.
- Developed and managed performance schedules and audio cues in partnership with comics to enhance show quality.
- Operate and inspect sound system, ensuring proper function and customer satisfaction.
Server & Camera Operator
Comedy on State
09.2023 - 01.2026
- Achieved timely guest reception and information delivery for sections of 35-40 guests within one hour.
- Facilitated unobtrusive drink service in dark, narrow setting.
- Optimized side work completion during suitable periods.
- Maintained high standards of cleanliness and restocked facilities promptly to ensure a sanitary and prompt experience for late show guests.
Lead Production Assistant
NBC's Top Chef
07.2023 - 12.2023
- Communicated with all departments to assess daily requirements and delegate tasks among other PAs.
- Led load-ins/outs to consistently finish ahead of schedule.
- Oversaw shared equipment and company car usage.
- Built camera rigs, dollies, and cranes.
- One of only six out of the original 60 PAs selected to assist in the finale, managed typical production challenges while on a populated cruise ship.
Office & Studio Assistant
Milwaukee Public Broadcast
09.2019 - 06.2023
- Cross-trained for multiple positions.
- Monitored schedules and ensured operational function as manager of A/V equipment rentals, processing 5-10 orders each shift.
- Operator of multiple roles for live broadcast, such as camera, switchboard, and audio board.
- Taught college interns production processes, techniques and professionalism.
- Wrote copy, organized and digitized archives, assisted event planning, and provided data-entry for the Marketing department.
Chef / Server
Interval
02.2021 - 04.2022
- Duties included monitoring inventory, baking, prep cooking, firing orders, and serving final dishes to customers. Developed systems of organization and communication for the opening of a second location. Recipe development and building relationships were highlights of this job.
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Medical Technology
Durham Technical Community College
Durham, NC06-2028
Associate of Applied Science - Television & Video Production
Milwaukee Area Technical College
Milwaukee, WI06-2023
Skills
- Mechanical Operations
- Sharp Memory
- Money Handling
- Time Management
- Clear Communication
- Strong Work Ethic
- Creative Problem Solving
- Engaged Learner
- Adobe Suite - Premiere, Photoshop, Lightroom
- Google Suite - Drive, Slides, Sheets
- Microsoft Suite - Word, PowerPoint, Excel
Accomplishments
Developed recipes and systems for operation at the second location of Interval, an expanding cafe, saving costs by reducing workload and food waste.
Coordination of the PBS Kids Young Writers' Contest, including processing entries, communicating with schools, and assembling classroom rewards.
Produced and directed a live-broadcast educational game show pilot, airing on PBS Milwaukee as part of a senior thesis.
Won 4th place at the Madison Thrill Factory's 2025 Server & Bartender Olympics, with events such as order memorization, rolling silver, and full-tray relay racing.
Timeline
Server & Sound
Helium Comedy
01.2026 - Current
Server & Camera Operator
Comedy on State
09.2023 - 01.2026
Lead Production Assistant
NBC's Top Chef
07.2023 - 12.2023
Chef / Server
Interval
02.2021 - 04.2022
Office & Studio Assistant
Milwaukee Public Broadcast
09.2019 - 06.2023
Associate of Applied Science - Medical Technology
Durham Technical Community College
Associate of Applied Science - Television & Video Production
Milwaukee Area Technical College