Kevin Quinlan has served as the kitchen manager at The New England Center for Children for five years. A colleague nominated Kevin because he “always has a smile on his face, greets fellow staff and students with a positive attitude, and seems to genuinely love his job.”
What is a typical day like in your job?
I arrive before 5 a.m. to set up the kitchen and start food production. Every day we prepare lunches and get dinners ready for delivery to the houses.
Why did you choose a career in food service?
I did not choose food service; food service chose me. I’ve been in kitchens for close to 40 years and have never been to cooking school.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of the job is making good food for great people.
What’s one aspect of your job you wish everyone could experience?
Seeing the students.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Spending time with my two granddaughters and family.
Who is someone you look up to?
George Moser. He asked me to work here—I used to work with him at EMC and I have known him for 18 years.
What is your life philosophy or a motto you like to live by?
Today is the best day of my life and tomorrow’s going to be even better than today.