Sunny Von Gnechten
Hilo
Summary
Passionate and adaptable professional with a strong background in environmental education, agriculture, and public engagement. Recognized for taking initiative, improving workplace operations, and contributing positively to team environments. Eager to continue learning, expand skillsets, and apply creativity, organization, and problem-solving abilities to new challenges.
Overview
1
1
Certification
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Associate & Keyholder
Nicoco Hawaiian Gelato
Hilo, HI
05.2025 - Current
- Managed shop operations independently, handling opening and closing duties
- Prepared food to serve and assisted in gelato production, following all food safety procedures
- Built strong customer relationships through friendly, attentive service, fostering brand loyalty.
- Operated the point-of-sale (POS) system, processed cash and card transactions accurately, and balanced the cash drawer.
- Improved daily operations by identifying opportunities for improvement, maintaining high operational standards, and enhancing efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Agricultural Operations Assistant
Derek Von Gnechten Family Farm Inc
Kurtistown, HI
12.2013 - Current
- Contributed to daily operations of multi-greenhouse produce farm as part of three-person team focused on cultivation, harvesting, processing, and maintenance.
- Maintained greenhouse operations through sanitation, crop care, and resource management to support consistent production and quality.
- Ensured greenhouse operations through sanitation, crop care, and resource management, supporting consistent production and maintaining quality.
- Cultivated teamwork skills by actively participating in all aspects of farm operations.
Conservation Leadership Development Program Member
Kupu Hawaii
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
09.2024 - 01.2025
- Independently managed interpretation areas, engaging visitors through geological displays and conversations about Hawai'is natural and cultural resources.
- Thoroughly responded to over 20 letters daily, from students worldwide, sharing the park’s natural and cultural history through educational communication.
- Organized office materials, reviewed historical documents, and updated internal resources and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to improve park operations.
- Earned certification to operate park vehicles, expanding operational responsibilities and ability to support rangers across park areas.
Interpretation Youth Ranger / Park Guide
National Park Service
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
06.2023 - 09.2024
- Provided visitor services through front desk operations, phone assistance, and visitor education on park resources, regulations, and wildlife.
- Supported interpretive programs and guided nature walks, connecting visitors with Hawai'is natural and cultural resources.
- Returned for a second term with increased responsibilities, independently leading educational talks for groups of up to 200 visitors.
- Led cultural hō‘ike demonstrations, including poi pounding and ti leaf lei making, to share Hawaiian traditions with visitors.
- Supported park conservation efforts through trail maintenance, invasive species removal, and resource stewardship activities to protect native ecosystems and biodiversity.
Education
High School Diploma -
Keaau High School
Kea‘au, HI05-2024
Skills
- Environmental knowledge
- Attention to detail
- Creative perspectives
- Initiative and self-driven
- Willingness to learn
- Public speaking
Certification
- Operational Leadership Training - July 2023
Timeline
Lead Associate & Keyholder
Nicoco Hawaiian Gelato
05.2025 - Current
Conservation Leadership Development Program Member
Kupu Hawaii
09.2024 - 01.2025
Interpretation Youth Ranger / Park Guide
National Park Service
06.2023 - 09.2024
Agricultural Operations Assistant
Derek Von Gnechten Family Farm Inc
12.2013 - Current
High School Diploma -
Keaau High School