Meet Crystal: Army Veteran & Area Coach, Pizza Hut, LLC, Evansville, IN
Crystal Ford’s journey has taken her all over the United States, but we couldn’t be happier to have her in our Evansville, Indiana, region as an Area Coach for the last 10 years. And we hear she makes a mean Honey BBQ Chicken & Bacon Pizza which we can’t wait to try.
Which branch did you serve in?
I served in the United States Army for 7.5 years and was stationed at Ft. Dix (New Jersey), Ft. Sill (Oklahoma), Ft. Shafter (Hawaii), and Ft. Benning (Georgia) until I was honorably discharged.
My career plan was to retire in the armed forces, but a life miracle happened—I got pregnant with my first child even though the doctors told me I would not be able to have children. I put my family first and foremost.
What’s your favorite thing about working for Pizza Hut?
Company Culture—a work environment where you feel comfortable and excited to come in daily. I love training and developing people to reach their full potential, and Pizza Hut has trusted and believed in me to do that. We have leaders who live the culture and encourage quality of life with our families.
What’s your favorite item to make at work?
Definitely Original Stuffed Crust® pizza. I enjoy teaching the team to make it the ONE RIGHT WAY!
What’s your favorite menu item or topping combo for pizza?
My favorite is our fabulous Honey BBQ Sauce with Chicken and Bacon on Thin ’N Crispy® crust.
If you could create one new item or bring back an old favorite, what would it be?
The Edge®. You just can’t get enough of the seasoning—guests ask for cups of it and we get lot of requests for extra.
Any other info you’d like to share with us?
Being part of the Pizza Hut Family is the best feeling in the world. There is not a better company to work for. They truly care about you and you will always feel a sense of belonging.
Meet Don: Navy Veteran & General Manager, ADT Florida LLC, Port St. Lucie, FL
Don Walter’s time in the Navy took him to some pretty amazing places—he once cooked for a vice president! Now, he’s leading a Pizza Hut crew and putting smiles on guests’ faces as a general manager in Port St. Lucie, Florida.
What branch did you serve in?
United States Navy for 4 years.
What’s your current Pizza Hut role and your current city/state?
General Manager for over 35 years.
What’s your favorite thing about working for Pizza Hut?
The rapport between guests and team members.
What’s your favorite item to make at work?
My favorite thing to make is pizza. I like creating something delicious from fresh, quality ingredients —it puts smiles on our guests’ faces.
What’s your favorite menu item or topping combo for pizza?
Thin ’N Crispy® with sausage, mushroom, red onion and bacon. It’s a scrumptious burst of flavor.
If you could create one new item or bring back an old favorite, what would it be?
The 1980 Lasagna with Neapolitan sauce.
Any other info you’d like to share with us?
The work ethic, loyalty and organizational skills that were instilled in me through service are crucial to my career as a Pizza Hut general manager. Thank you for this opportunity— God Bless America.
Disclaimer: Most Pizza Hut restaurants are owned and operated by independent franchisees. Franchisees are the exclusive employer of their employees and as such are solely responsible for all employment-related matters in their restaurants. The benefits referenced may not be available at all Pizza Hut restaurants. Pizza Hut and its franchisees are equal opportunity employers committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce.