McDonald’s is delighted to announce the presentation of the prestigious 1 in 8 Alumni Jacket to the Rodriguez family, esteemed McDonald’s Owner/Operators in Calhoun, Georgia. The ceremony, held on July 17, 2024 at their Calhoun restaurant, celebrated the remarkable journey and contributions of Orestes, Marietta, and their daughter Desiree Rodriguez to the McDonald’s family.
McDonald’s has uncovered a staggering fact: one in eight Americans has worked at our restaurants. McDonald’s “1:8” initiative highlights the shared experiences of many who began their careers with the hard work and dedication that starts at the fry station. The Rodriguez family’s story exemplifies this journey from crew members to successful Owner/Operators.
Orestes and Marietta Rodriguez began their McDonald’s journey in January 1981 in Miami, Florida. Orestes started as a crew member at the Little Havana location on West Flagler Street at just 15 years old, while Marietta began her career shortly after. They met through McDonald’s and have been a team ever since, working their way up the ranks. They served as crew trainers, swing managers, and assistant managers, and eventually became general managers. Orestes went on to become a training consultant, HR field service supervisor, and training manager for the Florida region before relocating to the Atlanta region.
In 2008, with a passion for McDonald’s and a vision to create a family legacy, the Rodriguez family embarked on the path to becoming Owner/Operators. Over the next decade, they successfully operated four restaurants. Six years ago, they sold those restaurants and purchased their current location in Calhoun, Georgia. Their journey spans 27 years, from crew members to esteemed Owner/Operators.
Desiree Rodriguez, their daughter, has been immersed in the McDonald’s culture since she was 10 years old and has since been approved to purchase her own McDonald’s restaurant. The Rodriguez family’s passion for McDonald’s has become heritage and they are incredibly proud of Desiree for continuing this tradition.
Orestes and Marietta Rodriguez have always been committed to providing growth opportunities for their employees, particularly younger workers. They believe in teaching leadership skills, interpersonal communication, and the value of hard work. Orestes emphasized, “Everything I learned about business came from the golden arches. We can have a significant impact on our employees’ lives, especially the younger ones. In a world increasingly dominated by electronics, we teach them essential human connection skills.”
When asked about being recognized as part of the 1:8 initiative, Orestes stated, “McDonald’s provided opportunities for our family, and in turn, we provide opportunities for others. It’s a foundation of teamwork and basic human behavioral skills that can be taken anywhere in the future.”
The Rodriguez family’s journey from crew members to successful Owner/Operators exemplifies the spirit of perseverance and dedication that McDonald’s values. Their story is a testament to the endless possibilities and opportunities within the McDonald’s system.
Job seekers can visit jobs.mchire.com to learn more and apply to a restaurant near them, or text ‘apply’ to 38000 to start an application via text.
