Leesha Hardy-Henderson
Aberdeen,MD
Summary
I am a detail-oriented, hard working recent graduate with an interest in food product development. My recent internship experience with Ingredion in the fields of research and development, as well as food technical service have provided me with excellent testing and analytical skills. I am experienced in conducting collaborative research projects and providing detailed reports. I have proven my ability to work along side a variety of stakeholders to develop selective research strategies and vegan product concepts.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Food Technical Service Intern
Ingredion
Bedford, IL
06.2024 - Current
- Implemented innovative research techniques to enhance the development of batter and breading food concepts.
- Executed sensory testing methods for in-depth food research
- Scaled down factory food production processes for use on the benchtop
- Acquired and implemented extensive understanding of calculations essential for food product development
- Determined consumer needs to provide batter and breading products that appeal to a larger market.
Research and Development Intern
Ingredion
10.2023 - 04.2024
- Assisted senior food scientists with the development of various food products including : meat alternatives, batters and breading, ready meals, and condiments
- Attaining understanding and supporting sensory testing of newly created prototypes
- Researched market trends to develop improved concepts for food products
- Performed data analysis on newly designed product concepts and presented information in a final presentation for key stakeholders
- Acquiring knowledge on projects involving starch and hydrocolloid chemistry
- Gained familiarity with safety standards for laboratory operations by following established guidelines
- Learned and observed methods to run laboratory machinery in the pilot plant such as; Silverson mixer, OMVE, Viscosity analyzer, PH meter, and Particle Size Analyzer.
McDonalds
McDonalds
Aberdeen
05.2023 - 08.2023
- Greeted customers and processed orders by operating cash register efficiently and accurately
- Provided excellent customer service while promoting loyalty programs to increase sales potential
- Prepared fried and baked goods, utilizing safety regulations for commercial kitchens.
Movie Theater Employee
Horizon Cinemas
05.2020 - 08.2022
- Maintained lobby, hallway, and auditorium cleanliness using various sanitation practices
- Greeted customers with a smile and provided friendly, knowledgeable service
- Stocked and organized concession supplies to provide customers with food and beverage options.
Daycare Assistant
Karing For Kids Learning Center
06.2019 - 09.2019
- Built constructive and open relationships with families with forthright yet friendly communication
- Managed daycare with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers and school-aged children in daily classroom and off-site activities
- Assisted with crafts and other activities to spark interest and enhance development
- Maintained clean and neat areas to protect kids and personnel.
Dog Daycare Attendant
Ruby's Pet Boutique
01.2015 - 01.2016
- Contributed to client retention by consistently providing outstanding customer service to both clients and pets
- Developed and implemented enrichment plans and medication regimens to keep animals healthy and stimulated
- Managed pet safety by securing yard gates and removing items that could make pets sick
- Kept cages, kennels, play yards, and grooming areas neat and clean.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Applied Liberal Studies
Morgan State University
Baltimore, MD05-2024
High School Diploma -
Aberdeen High School
06.2020
Skills
- Data analysis
- Product Development
- General Manufacturing Practices
- Leadership
- Time Management
- Problem Solving
- Collaboration
Honorsandawards
- Dean's List: Fall 2020
- Dean's List: Spring 2021
- Dean's List: Fall 2021
Affiliations
- Tau Beta Sigma National Honorary Band Sorority (2022)
- Recording Secretary for Tau Beta Sigma (2022-2023)
- Historian for Tau Beta Sigma (2023-2024)
- Morgan State University's Magnificent Marching Machine (2020-2024)
Accomplishments
- Ingredion Final Project for Vegan Food Applications (2023-2024)
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Food Technical Service Intern
Ingredion
06.2024 - Current
Research and Development Intern
Ingredion
10.2023 - 04.2024
McDonalds
McDonalds
05.2023 - 08.2023
Movie Theater Employee
Horizon Cinemas
05.2020 - 08.2022
Daycare Assistant
Karing For Kids Learning Center
06.2019 - 09.2019
Dog Daycare Attendant
Ruby's Pet Boutique
01.2015 - 01.2016
Bachelor of Science - Applied Liberal Studies
Morgan State University
High School Diploma -
Aberdeen High School
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