Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Languages
Interests
Timeline
EMPLOYMENT HISTORY
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Kenya Allen McDowell

Rock Island,Illinois

Summary

High-quality worker seeking employment with an organization valuing superior performance and productivity in team members.

Skilled Production Worker offering 7 years of experience in warehouse and manufacturing environments. Focused on being productive and safety-minded at all times.

Seasoned Machine Operator offering experience in high-volume assembly line production. Dedicated to rigorous inspection with commitment to follow-through and preventive maintenance. Knowledgeable in use of equipment, tools and CNC logic.

Motivated employee learns quickly in fast-paced, high-volume environments. Consistently adheres to safety standards. Maintains open availability and flexibility to work various shifts.

Experienced Film/TV Production Worker with 9+ years of experience in film/T.V. and event environments.

Skilled Food Production Worker offering 12+ years of experience in food preparation and handling environments.

Overview

2026
2026
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Machine Operator

SunChemical
  • Managed weekly inventory of 1000+ items with zero errors.
  • Helped with change-overs and set up to assist with job preparation and production functions.
  • Operated machining equipment safely with team of operators.
  • Set up and ran machinery to produce exceptional products for industrial needs.
  • Calibrated, tested, and adjusted machine settings or controls in preparation for production operations.
  • Identified malfunctions or failures by routinely monitoring and analyzing equipment operations.
  • Managed open and close of batch process from start to completion for batch tracking.
  • Followed instructions and directions on batch tickets for accurate results.
  • Documented production activity in logs and job tickets.
  • Collected batch samples of product for quality control.
  • Identified and corrected issues or inconsistencies found in batch samples.
  • Completed parts lubrication and other minor maintenance tasks to keep equipment running.
  • Organized and cleaned work area to meet standards, keep tidy and prevent injuries.
  • Monitored machines during operation to detect sounds of malfunction or excessive vibration and adjusted machines to eliminate problems.
  • Loaded raw materials into machines and unloaded finished products to keep manufacturing process running smoothly.
  • Assembled products according to changing daily work orders and specific customer needs.
  • Made sure that products were produced on time and are of good quality.
  • Collaborated with other departments to optimize production workflows.

Catering Chef

Duvall Catering and Events
  • Met face-to-face with clients of diverse backgrounds to discuss specific needs and considerations, designing unique garnishes, table settings and plate displays to suit each group's theme.
  • Conceptualized menus to account for dietary restrictions, food allergies and personal requests.
  • Traveled across 100+ mile-range to provide exceptional service, offering critically-acclaimed catering in various settings.
  • Sampled each dish for quality control prior to serving, identifying mistakes and solving immediately.
  • Created catering menu based upon client specifications, event type, dietary needs, and budget.
  • Crafted exciting catering options for clients.
  • Observed federal and local kitchen safety regulations to prevent food borne illnesses.
  • Addressed customer complaints with openness and proactivity, attending to concerns personally and offering creative solutions to uncharted problems with food availability, temperature, and quantity.
  • Followed all safety instructions to avoid injuries when operating heavy equipment in kitchen.
  • Cooked for large groups of people and managing various types of food for large events.
  • Cleaned and organized kitchen stations to promote team efficiency.
  • Designed catering menus containing ethnic food options to meet needs of diverse customer base.
  • Set up and disassembled food service stations, equipment and furniture per contract specifications.
  • Provided friendly, courteous service to create memorable moments for guests.
  • Presented food and beverages on buffet tables and drink stations in line with formality and specifications of each event.
  • Communicated with event coordinators and facility management to obtain appropriate catering accommodations.
  • Researched menu options for customers with food allergies or special dietary preferences to accommodate varied dietary needs.
  • Collaborated with clients to plan event venues, menus and budgets.
  • Replenished banquet stations and verified food temperatures and cleanliness of service areas.

Machine Operator

Aramark
  • Complied with company and OSHA safety rules and regulations.
  • Followed detailed instructions to operate machines with accuracy and produce quality products.
  • Set up and adjusted equipment and properly configured machines for daily operation.
  • Placed orders for materials and equipment with vendors.
  • Quickly shut down equipment in emergency situations following protocols.
  • Monitored compliance with plant procedures, safety, and sanitation protocols as well as government regulation.
  • Compiled reports analyzing performance data and presented findings and results.
  • Managed and monitored processes and machine systems by observing readings on control boards.
  • Set up and ran machinery to produce exceptional products for industrial needs.
  • Calibrated, tested, and adjusted machine settings or controls in preparation for production operations.
  • Monitored machines during operation to detect sounds of malfunction or excessive vibration and adjusted machines to eliminate problems.
  • Loaded raw materials into machines and unloaded finished products to keep manufacturing process running smoothly.

Content & Social Media Manager

Scott Sherman Realty
  • Managed an estimated $2,000 in daily transactions with minimal discrepancies.
  • Helped improve marketing and advertising for two companies ultimately increasing business and sales.
  • Able to multi-task and to make difficult decisions in stressful situations.
  • Taught in-house employees strategies for successful internal and external communications.
  • Authored fresh and engaging press releases and prepared complete press kits.
  • Cultivated strong corporate image and identity with clear branding.
  • Reviewed marketing materials and documents for brand accuracy and trending design.
  • Collaborated with other departments to develop integrated branding and public relations strategies.
  • Developed and promoted corporate brand, images and identity to media and public.
  • Prepared RFP and RFQ responses for new business pitches and presentations.
  • Oversaw social media presence and aligned posts to include branding and trending ideas.
  • Led crisis communications and media relations activities in response to challenging situations.
  • Increased brand awareness through development and implementation of successful public relations campaigns.

Photographer

Lifetouch Photography
  • Photographed high-quality images for various print and digital projects.
  • Planned and prepared for on-location and studio shoots.
  • Scheduled and booked locations for photo shoots, working collaboratively with clients and contacts.
  • Edited, toned, captioned, and uploaded photographs for publication.
  • Digitally edited photos to enhance appearance.
  • Increased production rates by regulating workflow to meet consumer needs.
  • Took photos from different angles and perspectives to capture perfect images.
  • Managed correspondence with clients, documented interactions and tracked data transfers with manual and automated strategies.
  • Provided excellent customer service and account regulation, strengthening client relations and boosting revenue.
  • Handled cameras operating at several thousand frames per second.
  • Assisted clients in selecting poses, wardrobe and backgrounds to photograph different looks, concepts and locations.
  • Utilized natural and artificial lighting to capture desired images and maintain quality.
  • Offered image proofs to help clients choose best photos from shoot.
  • Assisted clients with creative ideas for photography needs.
  • Trained new photographers in use of camera equipment and editing software.
  • Managed team of photographers for special projects.
  • Collaborated with clients to create engaging photo albums.
  • Utilized various types of camera equipment to capture best possible shots.
  • Generated cost-effective solutions for client's photography needs.
  • Monitored trends in photography to stay current in industry.
  • Customized photography strategies based on intended use and client preferences.
  • Shot photographs in controlled lab, field, and remote environments.
  • Collaborated with other photographers and videographers to capture special events.
  • Selected and set up appropriate props, backdrops, and lighting.

TV Production Assistant

HGTV
  • Supported producers in video editing sessions to bring final product to audience using Adobe Premier, Sony Vegas and iMovie.
  • Conducted research on royalties, copyrights and permissions for footage, images and music to prevent legal consequences.
  • Organized shooting schedules to accommodate budget requirements and needs.
  • Handled confidential matters and errands for guest stars and cast members.
  • Stayed alert, active, and ready to respond to any request at any time using variety of available resources.
  • Completed wide range of tasks in diverse filming areas to support operations.
  • Supported current production needs by moving items between equipment, conveyors, and staging areas.
  • Collaborated with production team to facilitate smooth operations, avoiding disruptions and delays
  • Operated camera, lighting and grip equipment to use during production process.
  • Conducted in-depth interviews with celebrities, politicians and newsmakers.
  • Managed digital assets and resources for business, promotional, and routine filming use.
  • Oversaw calendar to assist in coordinating daily production schedule, managing shifts and adequate coverage.
  • Interacted positively with actors and actresses when escorting to and from trailers during filming.
  • Assisted director with planning and completing film shots and B roll footage.
  • Reviewed news stories and edited down to fit into specific time slots.
  • Developed and maintained successful relationships with media professionals.
  • Spoke intelligently and enthusiastically regarding current music and performers to engage and entertain listeners.
  • Assisted with tasks for radio broadcasts, video production and other multimedia projects.
  • Assisted crews with set building and pointed out problems that could be potential safety issues.
  • Prepared and delivered news, sports or weather reports, gathering and rewriting material so it conveyed required information and fit specific time slots.
  • Wrote and edited copy for range of publications and websites.

TV Production Assistant

Nexstar Broadcasting - KRBC
2023 - Current
  • Scheduled catering arrangements, flights, impromptu requests and rider fulfillment for 5+person performance crew.
  • Communicated with other crew members via walkie talkies to coordinated production activities.
  • Developed and implemented communication strategies for range of internal and external stakeholders.
  • Cut delivery times through proactive tracking and monitoring of project timelines and aggressive pursuit of customer approval of digital and print files.
  • Reviewed activities for production team to complete tasks on time.
  • Maintained schedules, managed deadlines, and interfaced with teammates to support production activities.
  • Supervised wardrobe, hair, and makeup needs for several actors simultaneously on remote shoot location.
  • Supported producers in video editing sessions to bring final product to audience using Adobe Premier, Sony Vegas and iMovie.
  • Conducted research on royalties, copyrights and permissions for footage, images and music to prevent legal consequences.
  • Organized shooting schedules to accommodate budget requirements and needs.
  • Handled confidential matters and errands for guest stars and cast members.
  • Stayed alert, active, and ready to respond to any request at any time using variety of available resources.
  • Completed wide range of tasks in diverse filming areas to support operations.
  • Supported current production needs by moving items between equipment, conveyors, and staging areas.
  • Collaborated with production team to facilitate smooth operations, avoiding disruptions and delays
  • Operated camera, lighting and grip equipment to use during production process.
  • Conducted in-depth interviews with celebrities, politicians and newsmakers.
  • Managed digital assets and resources for business, promotional, and routine filming use.
  • Interacted positively with actors and actresses when escorting to and from trailers during filming.
  • Assisted director with planning and completing film shots and B roll footage.
  • Reviewed news stories and edited down to fit into specific time slots.
  • Developed and maintained successful relationships with media professionals.
  • Assisted with tasks for radio broadcasts, video production and other multimedia projects.
  • Assisted crews with set building and pointed out problems that could be potential safety issues.
  • Prepared and delivered news, sports or weather reports, gathering and rewriting material so it conveyed required information and fit specific time slots.
  • Wrote and edited copy for range of publications and websites.

School Cook

Chartwells Schools Dining Services
2023 - Current
  • Cooked meals according to administrative policies, health code regulations and food service standards.
  • Measured, weighed, and mixed appropriate ingredients according to recipe directions.
  • Collected payments and observed customers for suspicious behavior.
  • Communicated with supervisor to discuss menu items, ingredients and nutritional values.
  • Followed proper procedures for use of government-provided commodities.
  • Trained and supervised new kitchen staff on food preparation and safety protocols.
  • Oversaw scheduling, inventory management, and supply ordering to maintain fully stocked kitchen.
  • Maintained high food quality standards by checking delivery contents to verify product quality and quantity.
  • Monitored food temperatures throughout preparation and serving process.
  • Planned menus complying with established health guidelines and budget limitations.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.
  • Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
  • Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
  • Adaptable individual with exceptional interpersonal skills and talent for building relationships. Known for delivering outstanding service and enhancing client satisfaction. Focused on fostering positive interactions and creating collaborative environment.
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
  • Provided professional services and support in a dynamic work environment.
  • Learned and adapted quickly to new technology and software applications.
  • Participated in team projects, demonstrating an ability to work collaboratively and effectively.

Education

Film and Video Production, Audio Production

Art Institute of Atlanta
Atlanta, GA

Film and Video Production

Art Institute of Charleston
Charleston, SC

Skills

  • Hands-on experience in food service
  • Superior customer service skills
  • Operational control
  • Equipment monitoring
  • Shipping and labeling
  • Forklift and pallet jack operation
  • Commercial photography
  • Event coverage
  • Visual storytelling
  • Portrait photography
  • Product photography
  • Social media
  • Culinary techniques
  • Food presentation
  • Safe food handling
  • Nutritional advice

Certification

Food Handlers Certificate 2024/2025

Languages

Spanish
English
Native or Bilingual
Swahili
Elementary

Interests

  • Blockchain Technology and Cryptocurrency
  • Digital Art and Animation
  • Augmented Reality (AR) Development
  • Youth Development Programs
  • Offering time and support to shelters for the homeless, women, and animals
  • Getting involved in local advocacy groups to promote positive change in the community
  • Animal Welfare Advocacy
  • Environmental Conservation Projects
  • Volunteer Work
  • Homelessness Outreach
  • Engaging in food photography and sharing culinary creations on social media
  • Growing herbs, vegetables, or fruits in home gardens
  • Food Photography
  • Volunteering at community kitchens and food-related charities
  • Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and flavors in the kitchen
  • Graphic Design
  • Music
  • Creating digital artwork using software like Photoshop, Illustrator, or Procreate
  • I have a passion for photography and editing photos
  • Creative Writing
  • I enjoy helping others and giving back to the community
  • Gardening
  • Martial Arts
  • Regularly practice mindfulness and meditation for overall wellness

Timeline

Film and Video Production

Art Institute of Charleston

Machine Operator

SunChemical

Catering Chef

Duvall Catering and Events

Machine Operator

Aramark

Content & Social Media Manager

Scott Sherman Realty

Photographer

Lifetouch Photography

TV Production Assistant

HGTV

TV Production Assistant

Nexstar Broadcasting - KRBC
2023 - Current

School Cook

Chartwells Schools Dining Services
2023 - Current

Film and Video Production, Audio Production

Art Institute of Atlanta

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

  • Shift Leader-Dairy Queen Charleston, SC
  • Team Member- Sweet Water Café Charleston, SC
  • Team Member- Buck’s Pizza Charleston, SC
  • Grill master- Ralph Johnson V.A. Charleston, SC
  • Event Chef- Duvall Catering
  • Cook- Chartwells (Roosevelt Elementary School)