Meet Alyson Fendrick, RD, LD, who has worked in almost every setting within the dietetic industry including clinical, food service management, retail, nutrient analysis labs, and agriculture.

All her experience helped her get her current job as a Marketing Communications Manager with Midwest Dairy.

Alyson shares how her diverse skillsets created opportunities for her to find her dream job and allow her to effectively communicate key messages to the masses. She definitely has an exciting career to share! - Sarah


What attracted you to the field of nutrition and dietetics?
As a junior in high school, I was fortunate to participate in the World Food Prize Youth Institute. This opportunity opened my eyes to a global food system, and I knew I wanted a career that made a difference in the health of others. I wanted to ensure everyone had safe and secure access to food. That led me to exploring the career of Dietetics and I have never looked back.

Your Job Title?
Marketing Communications Manager

Company you are with now?
Midwest Dairy

Website:

- www.midwestdairy.com

Social Media:

- Instagram: @alysonapproved

Describe a typical (or not so typical) day-in-the-work-life for you?
I am lucky to be able to touch all areas of our company, so I am able to support a variety of projects. Some days I am working with our demand team to development marketing plans with retail partners. Other days, I work with farmer relations managers to identify farm families to include in our marketing efforts and gathering their family stories. In addition, I edit resources to ensure it complies with our branding and USDA guidelines. I also work with partners to execute events to reach thought leaders and tell dairy’s unique story.

How did you get your current job in dietetics?
Over the course of my 10 years as a registered dietitian, I have worked in clinical, food service management, retail, a nutrition analysis lab, and finally agriculture. I have been very fortunate to work across the food spectrum. I am now able to bring that expertise to light for our wonderful farmers and the significant impact they make.

What skills were you born with and what skills have you learned along the way?
I have always been a natural leader. From student council and sports clubs in high school to leadership positions with our local AND organization, leading was always something that came natural for me. Marketing and negotiation skills were not something that I was born with and have learned along my career path. I have been fortunate to have mentors that have helped me develop these skills along the way.

What advice do you have for others wanting to be just as successful and fulfilled as you
Diversify your skill set. Don’t be disheartened if you don’t get the first job you had your eyes set on. Look for opening doors and the opportunities they may bring you.

If you could be paid for your job with something other than a paycheck, what
would it be?
Cheese!!!