Turning a passion into a career requires a combination of skill and dedication. Nobody knows this better than Bakery Manager Austin Andrews, #1243, Ponte Vedra, Florida, who spends 50 hours a week doing what she loves with people she gets to call her family.

Austin grew up in South Florida and has always been a Publix shopper. Her Publix story began in 2013, but her love of baking started at a young age. “My mom was an executive chef, but she hated to bake — so she taught me. I made a lot of fun birthday cakes for friends and family,” Austin said, adding that she taught herself how to decorate with fondant. “I worked as a private chef for a family, where I helped make desserts and bake. I really enjoyed it and kept doing that as a hobby.”

Austin started out studying sociology and economics in college but changed her major after a summer as a pastry chef at a family friend’s restaurant. She went on to obtain an associate of science degree in baking and pastry arts, a bachelor of arts degree in food service management and a master of arts degree in business administration.

Before joining Publix, Austin wanted to open her own bakery. But she discovered she could use her knowledge and experience to create a career with a company where the sky’s the limit. “Every day is different. No matter how you plan, unknown factors can change your plans. Chaos just promotes more chaos, so I take pride in staying calm and positive,” Austin said.

“Austin has created a team atmosphere here,” said Store Manager Greg Byrd, who describes her as in control and professional. “Even though she’s only been here a short time, Austin has made a difference in our bakery, and her associates and customers love her.”

“Seeing my Publix family is like coming to my second home. I know a lot about them, and they know a lot about me. Every day, I get to create bonds with people who are special to me,” she said.

For Austin, that’s the icing on the cake.