Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
References
Availability
Timeline
Generic

Olive Cowdrey

Santa Barbara,CA

Summary

My mindset in life is to be open. I am always looking to be educated, try new things, and experience as much as I can. I was raised by a single mother and followed along to her many jobs. Her dedication as a culinary educator ignited a similar fire within me. Having successfully contributed to over 50 events by the age of 19, I've honed my skills in a fast-paced environment. My strong work ethic, attention to detail, and innate drive to succeed make me a valuable asset to any hospitality team.

Overview

6
6
years of professional experience

Work History

Kitchen Hand

The Century
10.2023 - Current
    • I leverage my culinary expertise to contribute to the smooth operation of event catering, supporting functions with 20 to 200+ guests.
    • Demonstrating exceptional time management skills, I've efficiently handled the demands of concurrent events. My responsibilities include meticulous food preparation, appetizer presentation and replenishment, restaurant-quality dinner plating, and adherence to strict event timeframes. This comprehensive approach ensures a flawless and memorable dining experience for every guest.
    • Maintained a well-organized work area by consistently cleaning surfaces and organizing supplies.

Event Server

Greens on Tenth
04.2023 - Current


  • My experience extends to the successful execution of a wide range of events, including weddings, corporate meetings, and cooking classes.
  • I excel at managing the logistics of the event day, ensuring seamless coordination, meticulous setup, and attentive service delivery.
  • This client-focused approach guarantees an exceptional experience for all attendees, from the initial planning stages to the final moments of the event.
  • Worked closely with fellow servers to coordinate efforts during busy periods, promoting teamwork and efficient service.
  • Served appetizers, delivered entrees, and refilled beverages for banquet guests.

Private Chef

Shauna Hargrave, Angela Burge, Jessica Tsuruda
02.2024 - 08.2024
  • Worked closely with clients regarding their nutritional goals and implemented meal plans accordingly.
  • Adapted quickly to last-minute changes in menu requests or guest counts without sacrificing quality or presentation standards.
  • Prepared high-quality meals for clients with diverse palates, emphasizing the use of fresh, local ingredients.

Junior Sous Chef

Stephanie Nagle
02.2023 - 08.2024
  • Did miscellaneous things throughout the kitchen such as prep work, baking, dishes, kitchen cleaning, followed recipes, and worked line during service hours.
  • Accelerated service times by efficiently organizing mise en place during busy shifts without sacrificing the quality of the final product.
  • Received praise from customers for exceptional flavor combinations and presentation skills, enhancing the restaurant''s reputation for culinary excellence.
  • Supported executive chef in menu development, resulting in diverse and innovative culinary offerings that attracted new clientele.
  • Delivered comprehensive event management services for multiple on-site projects.
  • Crafted and executed multiple coursed meals for groups of up to 45, exercising full culinary control from concept to plate.


Chipotle Crew Member & certified trainer

Ryan LeFurge
10.2021 - 04.2023
  • I began my career as a crew member and quickly demonstrated exceptional talent at a young age, earning my certification as a trainer. In this position, I played a pivotal role in the successful opening and training of multiple Chipotle locations across the Central Valley.
  • Learned countless hospitality skills
  • Worked and thrived in a fast-paced environment
  • Maintained positive customer service under pressure
  • Learned valuable food safety tools and maintained kitchen cleanliness
  • Worked long shifts with a good attitude


Manager's Assistant

Modesto Farmers Market
05.2021 - 10.2021
  • Developed loyal customer relationships
  • Communicated with business owners and community members
  • Completed regular inventory counts to verify stock levels
  • Dealt with money transactions.

Pizza Chef Assistant

Karli Barrieau
04.2020 - 05.2021
  • Operated pizza oven and other kitchen equipment safely to protect team members from harm and equipment from damage
  • Prepared raw materials for cooking by cutting vegetables and preparing dough
  • Handled cash register operations by giving customer totals and processing cash and credit card payments
  • Lifted and carried heavy materials
  • Maintained composure and work quality while under stress
  • Explained menu items and suggested appropriate options for food allergy concerns.

Bakery Assistant

David Bradford
04.2018 - 08.2018
  • Washed dishes and sanitized prep area at end of each shift
  • Made, shaped, frozen pizza dough for local restuants
  • Operated commercial kitchen equipment and tools, including planetary mixer
  • Decorated baked goods and designed visually appealing displays of finished products
  • Maintained clean, organized kitchen to maximize efficiency and food safety.

Education

Associate of Arts - Hospitality Management

Columbia College
Sonora, CA
05.2025

High School Diploma -

Riverbank High School
Riverbank, CA
05.2023

Skills

Provided service and event support for various community initiatives, including:

  • Boys and girls club dinners
  • Local crab feeds for charity
  • Neighborhood crawdad block party
  • hosted & assisted cooking classes for children and adults
  • Personal holiday parties/special events

References

  • Bonnie Ohara, (209) 900-3727
  • Steph Nagel (248) 952-4022
  • Paul Tremayne, (209) 303-4242
  • Erin Hargrave, (209) 595-4139
  • Robert Root, (209) 497-1749


Availability


  • Monday: after 5pm
  • Tuesday: after 4pm
  • Wednesday: anytime
  • Thursday: anytime
  • Friday: anytime
  • Saturday: anytime
  • Sunday: unavailable

Timeline

Private Chef

Shauna Hargrave, Angela Burge, Jessica Tsuruda
02.2024 - 08.2024

Kitchen Hand

The Century
10.2023 - Current

Event Server

Greens on Tenth
04.2023 - Current

Junior Sous Chef

Stephanie Nagle
02.2023 - 08.2024

Chipotle Crew Member & certified trainer

Ryan LeFurge
10.2021 - 04.2023

Manager's Assistant

Modesto Farmers Market
05.2021 - 10.2021

Pizza Chef Assistant

Karli Barrieau
04.2020 - 05.2021

Bakery Assistant

David Bradford
04.2018 - 08.2018

Associate of Arts - Hospitality Management

Columbia College

High School Diploma -

Riverbank High School

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Olive Cowdrey