Aspiring chef supports the U.S. Navy and gains professional skills: Ceasar's story

Unlocking passion and purpose through work

What started as a job became an opportunity for Ceasar to grow his professional expertise and lean into his passion for cooking. 

Ceasar works as a line cook at Goodwill Great Lakes, which provides food service, administrative and logistic services to Sailors and Recruits at the U.S. Navy’s only bootcamp, Naval Station Great Lakes, in Great Lakes, Illinois. 

Goodwill provides a different kind of working environment at Goodwill Great Lakes. Having an opportunity to serve the U.S. Navy and working with people of different backgrounds – specifically people with significant disabilities – has allowed Ceasar to grow not only in his career but as an individual. 

“Working with a diverse group of people has taught me flexibility, communication and unity. The workday will be smooth as long as we uphold these behaviors.” 

Ceasar’s favorite part about working at Goodwill is being able to cook for Sailors and Recruits and seeing the smile on their faces while enjoying a great meal – instilling purpose behind his work. 

Ceasar has paved a meaningful career path for himself by taking part in the 2023 Commander Navy Installations Command (CNIC) culinary competition where he was able to immerse himself in the world of culinary arts. The experience was priceless, supporting his passion for cooking and the opportunity to excel in his career. 

“CNIC is a venue for aspiring cooks like me to become chefs. It’s a wonderful opportunity to be trained by culinary experts, and I can share the skills I learn within the community.” 

Ceasar enjoys working with his team members and extends his passion for cooking quality food by sharing skills he’s learned over his career. When asked what he would tell someone who is considering working at Goodwill, Ceasar shared, “It’s an opportunity that helps you grow as an individual and as a mentor.”

About Goodwill Great Lakes  

Goodwill provides food service, administrative and logistic services to Sailors and Recruits at the Navy’s only bootcamp, Naval Station Great Lakes, in Great Lakes, Illinois. The relationship has been repeatedly recognized and honored by multiple organizations as a stellar example of a partnership at its best.