1 in 8 Crew Story: Joy Frank-Silmon

Joy Silmon, Dallas, TX

In high school, Joy Frank-Silmon worked as a crew member at one of her father’s McDonald’s restaurants in Patterson, New Jersey. “I thought I was queen of the drive-thru at the time,” she joked. And while Joy hung up her apron shortly after graduation, she eventually returned to McDonald’s 20 years later, but this time as an owner-operator ready to be a part of the family business.

Joy credits her time in the restaurant with teaching her essential professional skills like problem-solving, teamwork, customer service and people management. And she attests these skills learned as a crew member have been the foundation to everything she’s done with her career since. As a 2nd generation franchisee, she has expanded her organization to include nine McDonald’s restaurants in Dallas and Austin.

One of the most resounding sentiments of the 1 in 8 Americans who have worked at a McDonald’s in their lifetime is the connection it creates. Joy is adamant that the one thing that has never changed over the decades she’s been with the company is the familial bond with her fellow 1 in 8 members.

“Even though McDonald’s sells burgers and fries, we’re really in the business of serving and connecting people,” she said. “Whether it’s 1990 or 2024, the connection between my fellow crew members will forever be there.”

Joy hopes to use the opportunities McDonald’s grants to motivate other 1in8ers, instilling in her crew members that the daily experiences and connections they create in the restaurant are building blocks for wherever the future takes them. “Working at McDonald’s is a stepping-stone to achieving your dreams.”

Thank you, Joy, for being part of the 1-in-8 Americans who make our Arches so golden.

Kendall Hurns: Creative Entrepreneur, Former Crew & 1 in 8 Member

Designer, entrepreneur, and artist are just a few of Kendall Hurns' many titles. But perhaps the most relatable: former McDonald's Crew. What started as a part-time restaurant job evolved into a life-long membership, making Kendall Hurns a part of the 1 in 8.

Elizabeth Gomez: Surgical Technologist, Former Crew & 1 in 8 Member

Elizabeth Gomez discovered her calling to help others while working as a McDonald's crew member. Eventually trading in her spatula for a scalpel, she studied surgical technology through Archways to Opportunity and applies the same skills learned in the kitchen in the operating room.

Yenis Blanco: Student, Current Training Manager & 1 in 8 Member

After arriving in the U.S. from Central America, Yenis Blanco knew little English when she began working as a crew member. Now, she's a college student studying business through Archways to Opportunity and oversees the training programs at 15 McDonald's restaurants.

Are You Part of the 1 in 8?

We want to hear from you, the Crew, who make up the 1 in 8. Tell us how McDonald's played a role in your journey.

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Important Note:

McDonald's and McDonald's independently owned and operated franchisees are equal opportunity employers committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Most McDonald's restaurants are operated by independent franchisees who are independent employers, and set their own employment policies and practices, including pay and benefits for the people working in their restaurants. McDonald's USA does not control the independent franchisees' employment policies and practices and does not employ those working at franchised restaurants.