Early Career Program Networking Event Offers New Opportunities to Learn

Twenty-one of our talented employees from across the organization enjoyed a comprehensive blend of learning, networking and professional development at a recent Early Career Program networking event.

The two-day program fostered connections between and provided valuable insights to employees in our early career programs, such as the Commercial Development Program, Supply Chain Rotation Program, Engineering Graduate Development Program and EHS Rotation Program.

Doug Romain, Chief Operating Officer of ASR Group, kicked off the first day with a keynote that addressed the vital role of innovation and sustainability for our organization and emphasized the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in our employees’ career journeys.

“It was an awesome experience for new staff to hear from our Chief Operating Officer,” said Kerri Grachik, Director of Talent, Diversity & Inclusion. “It set the tone for the two days.”

Later, participants engaged in a series of networking activities that were thoughtfully crafted to encourage collaboration.

Day two gave employees firsthand insight into how we operate. The first stop in the daylong tour was the Okeelanta Refinery, where participants got an up-close look at our refining operations and gained a deeper understanding of our commitment to efficiency and quality.

Next, participants visited our Sem-Chi Rice Mill, where they learned about the rice production cycle, from harvesting to milling. The tour showcased the mill’s state-of-the-art technology and sustainable practices.

"The tours were very eye-opening to the first steps of sugar processing—that is, the harvesting and milling,” said ASR Group Graduate Development Program Engineer Jared Phair​​​​. “As an employee at our Yonkers Refinery, which processes the raw sugar milled in Florida, I had less exposure to that part of the process prior to this experience. And, as a Utilities Engineer, I also found the power production side of the Okeelanta plant interesting, as their primary fuel source is sugarcane fiber, called bagasse, which is an annually renewable source of green energy.”

Throughout the event, participants had opportunities to interact with industry veterans and peers, gaining different perspectives and building their professional network.

“As someone who is neither an engineer nor a farmer in an agricultural and manufacturing company, I treasure every opportunity to gain knowledge and insights into those aspects of the business,” said Ella Mizrahi, Sr. Commercial Development Analyst. “Getting to know my engineering colleagues who are at the same stage in their careers as I am, and experiencing the Okeelanta Mill and Refinery with them, is an invaluable opportunity that makes me better at my job. I’m grateful to HR for putting the event together and making it such a great experience.”

The Early Career Program networking event not only provided valuable industry insights and practical knowledge but also fostered meaningful connections that will undoubtedly benefit participants in their professional growth. Thank you to all who planned and participated.