Despite her youth, Erika already has a vision for her career path. “I think ultimately the business side. I would love to own my own business — a restaurant or even a coffee shop with a café kind of vibe.” Erika plans to apply to the University of Central Florida to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business, finance, marketing or hospitality management.

Erich Chieca, Culinary Collective Lead at Hormel Foods, plating for an event.
“I would not be the chef I am today without having that type of training where you were learning how to run a restaurant operation,” he says. He frequently advises aspiring culinary professionals to consider community college before investing in more expensive institutions. Erich notes that taking on massive student loans for culinary education can be financially devastating. “Even though chefs today are making more than ever, it still doesn’t matter. If you’re taking on $100k in debt, you’ll pay it back sooner or later—or, with interest, it could end up costing you double.”
For many families, particularly those where no one has previously attended college, the program can be transformative. “A two-year degree can be a game changer for someone — it can be a springboard to a four-year university, or a solid foundation for entering a skilled trade,” Erich notes. “Either way, it opens doors.”
As Erika prepares for her Disney externship and considers her future business aspirations, she represents exactly what the Inspired Pathways program was designed to achieve — opening doors for the next generation of professionals while strengthening employee commitment to Hormel Foods. For the Chiecas, the kitchen remains the heart of family connection and professional aspiration — a legacy now extending to a new generation, supported by an employer who understands that investing in the children of employees builds a stronger future for everyone.