For Grocery Team Leader Summer Salivia at #1856, Boiling Springs, South Carolina, Veterans Day is a time to reflect on growth, leadership and gratitude.

Summer served 5 years in the U.S. Navy as an airman, playing a key role in launching and recovering jets.

After graduating from high school, Summer wasn’t sure what path to take.

“I didn’t know what I wanted to do. I just wanted to challenge myself and see if I could make it through boot camp,” she said.

That decision became a defining chapter of her life.

While in the Navy, Summer quickly stepped into leadership roles, becoming a training leader early in her career. She helped guide others while building strong, cohesive teams.

After leaving the military, transitioning to civilian life was smooth, but Summer still wanted a career that felt impactful and meaningful. She found that at Publix.

“Everyone looks out for each other here. It really feels like a family,” she said. “As much as you invest in Publix, they invest in you, and not a lot of companies do that.”

Summer relies on the skills she developed in the military: staying organized, communicating clearly and leading with purpose.

“As a grocery team leader, I talk with my team about what needs to get done and put people in the positions where I know they’ll succeed,” she explained. “It’s about setting the team up to win!”

The foundation Summer built in the Navy continues to guide her forward, influencing how she leads, supports others and grows each day at Publix.

Publix is a family — a big, 260,000-person one — with backgrounds from across the country and around the world. This article is part of a series featuring associates from a variety of backgrounds, age groups and cultures, and we love sharing their successes. We hope our articles help you learn a little more about your fellow associates who make up our Publix family.