Gayle Poplau

Melrose, WI

Meat Quality Specialist - OMC

Why did you decide to come to work at CROPP?
It's a great way to use my food science degree and contribute to rural economic development.

How long have you been with CROPP?
Since May 2012

Why do you like working at CROPP?
As a member of the OMC team, I never have to settle for a single food science career path. Every day I get to do a little sensory analysis, quality assurance, product development, process improvement, regulatory research, export… If I worked for a different food company, I'd have to pick just one avenue. I love the variety!

What has been the best experience or day you've had at CROPP thus far?
My second day on the job was a road trip. My supervisor took me to meet our Australian partners, tour a processing plant, and visit a farm. I learned so much about the history, ideals, and current state of the Organic Meat Company.

What's your favorite perk/benefit?
Definitely the Milky Way Café cookies.

What's your favorite Organic Valley or Organic Prairie product?
Spiral sliced ham.

Describe your typical workday at CROPP:
I walk to work, wade through some emails, and start cranking through whatever project is highest priority. The highest priority might be a sensory test, designing specifications, or setting up a production trial for new and improved products. I spend about half my time at my desk and the rest in the OMC QA kitchen, the Retail Store, or Cashton DC. The team does a potluck about once a week for lunch and I take a walk for my breaks. At the end of the day I make a list for the next day and walk home again.

Describe your commute:
I walk across town for 5 minutes, setting off the neighborhood dogs and, occasionally, the nesting pair of sand hill cranes that hang out on the edge of La Farge.

What other types of jobs have you held?
Regulatory Affairs Specialist, Project Manager, Community Health & Economic Development Volunteer, Kitchen Supervisor, Barista, Dairy Pilot Plant Assistant, Raw Milk Intake Personnel.

What are your other interests or hobbies?
Reading, Sewing, Cooking, Biking, Hiking, and Kayaking.