On December 1, Pella’s very own Chick-fil-A location opened to the public. With the drive thru line stretching all the way onto HWY G-28, it’s no surprise that Chick-fil-A received a hearty Pella welcome. Not only did dozens of PHS students flock to the new restaurant, but several were working for the chain on opening day. Alongside a number of visiting trainers, they learned the ropes just in time for the crowds to arrive. 

Junior Grace Brown was operating the drive thru Thursday evening when the dinner rush was rolling in. With wait times reaching almost 2 hours, it was “quite the way to start my Chick-fil-A career” she notes. Brown decided to apply for the job because she wasn’t happy with her past job and jumped on the opportunity when it came. Even with lots of customers to serve, Brown wouldn’t change a thing.

“I love the atmosphere– there is so much joy between everyone that is working, and it is a really positive group of people [to be around].”

Junior Jessa DeNooy is also a new staff member at the restaurant. She mentioned the friendly workplace atmosphere as well, saying, “Everyone is excited. We’re all hyped for Chick-fil-A.” 

One unique aspect about working at a new restaurant is that all staff are training together. As DeNooy puts it, “Everyone is new, everyone is learning how things work together.”

Likewise, Brown notes, “It’s really exciting because everything is brand-new and untouched, it’s so clean!” 

Next time you venture out to Chick-fil-A, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for Pella High’s student workers. As Brown put it, “Come out to Chick-fil-A–it’d be our pleasure!”