One in eight Americans demonstrates that working at McDonald’s is more than simply serving food; it provides valuable community engagement and career development. Over 70% of current and former crew members, referred to as the “1 in 8,” report that their time at McDonald’s equipped them with essential skills such as communication, collaboration, dependability, and leadership. Nearly half attribute opportunities they received to their roles at McDonald’s.
To honor these contributions, McDonald’s has launched “Employees Only,” a new event series designed specifically for the 1 in 8 community. These events offer past and present crew members exclusive networking and mentorship opportunities, along with inspiring stories and advice from successful alumni.
The title “Employees Only” pays homage to the iconic doors of McDonald’s restaurants, symbolizing the unique experiences and vital skills gained by crew members that can lead to diverse career paths.
The series kicked off in Chicago and featured notable guests, including comedian Chris Redd, who shared how his experiences as a crew member motivated his comedy career; chef Kwame Onwuachi, who showcased his culinary skills with a twist on McDonald’s sauces while discussing how his time at McDonald’s helped him achieve success; and actress Clarissa Molina, who inspired attendees and spoke about how her McDonald’s experience prepared her for her role in beauty pageants.
This initiative reflects McDonald’s commitment to recognizing the contributions of its crew members and fostering a supportive community.