One year ago, my professional life changed, as it was the day that it all ended. The Dakota Dunes office of Tyson Foods was officially closed and just like that, I no longer worked for Tyson Foods. Tyson Foods was the only company I had ever worked for after I graduated from college in 2002. I had spent nearly 21 years working for Tyson Foods and I never thought that it would end just so simply, but I soon realized that it had. As I look back and reflect, now one year later, there are quite a few things that I have learned: 1. The sun rose the next day and life went on. 2. Relationships matter. 3. Friendships made at work will last and transcend employment & employers. I’ve been fortunate to find new employment and to stay in the Meat/Food Industry. I started working for Marel in November 2023. I have enjoyed the change of jobs and the challenge of learning a new company, new products, and a new role. Many of the learnings from my roles at Tyson have helped me in my new role with Marel. I am still in Sales, just now selling equipment to companies in the Meat & Food industry instead of selling meat to retailers, distributors, and processors. I wake up each day and I am invigorated to help my customers find solutions to help them operate more effectively. Change is constant in life. That doesn’t mean that it is easy. I’ve found that it is best to embrace the change, find the good in it, and go make the best of it. Here’s to the future and the changes that will come with it!
That’s awesome. I am going through a similar transition after Tyson closed the facility in Jacksonville late last year. I completely agree with your 3 take aways. Congratulations and I wish you the best of luck.
Well said Jim. 41 years for me and it hit hard when it hit. I know we all thought we would live and breath Tyson until we decided to retire, plans change, people change and friendships stay! Best of Luck everyone!
Jim, I would echo your sentiments and thoughts. Best thing you stated was to embrace the change and move forward. There is life after a 21 year career,or in my case, a 40 year career.
Great perspective, it’s not always what happens to you, it’s, how you react to it.
Great to have had known you in my professional and personal life.
Great thoughts Jim. I have been through many changes and jobs in my career. Shone good and some bad, but I endeavors to make them all learning experiences. Glad to see you are doing well. I wish you the best.
Well written
Jim, tremendous mindset that will serve you well for many years, well into your retirement. Life brings change, and change brings opportunity both personally and professionally. Always place yourself and family first, and God will handle the rest. You’re doing great! Go Huskers!🙏
Well said, and absolutely true- I totally get it. I also heard from a little bird that you did me a solid with a reference landing me my current gig! Thank you, sir!
Director: HR Operations at Tyson Foods
4moJim—very well said. When one door closes another door really does open. Hard to believe it has been a year already. Hope things are going well for you and your family. Go Cyclones!!