Tanya Mitchell thrives on challenge. Whether that’s training a new team member at her store’s register, signing with hearing-impaired guests, or competing at the 2022 Special Olympics U.S.A. Games, Tanya delights in elevating both herself and others to a higher standard.
“We throw challenges at her and she always rises to the occasion,” Rianna Woolley, Pilot’s food service manager, said.
She won three bronze medals after competing against 10 other countries in this year’s Special Olympics – one for singles, one doubles, and one for unified team.
“To see us all come together and bond over something we have in common, which is our love for sports, was awesome,” Tanya said.
Tanya moved to California in 2010 and began searching for a new after-work activity. She checked bowling out and, sure enough, she loved it. Twelve years later, she’s still playing, with dreams of someday going to the Special Olympics World games.
“I love being able to meet other people who also have a disability,” Tanya said. “I love learning how to socialize at the same time with each other since not all of us really know how to.”
Her Pilot team cheered Tanya on from the store, downloading an app that kept them updated with each game she played. They sent her little notes of congratulations and encouraging messages, supporting her just like she does to guests and team members at Store 1096 each and every day. Ever since joining Pilot last June, Tanya “enhances the day” for the store, and is even the team’s trainer. She makes sure all of the store’s new team members are comfortable on the front register, have a great onboarding experience, and know how to take great care of each guest that walks in to the store.
“She’s very thorough and patient, always making sure our guests come first,” Rianna said. “All of our regulars love to come to her because she remembers their order and makes sure they’re taken care of.” There have been a few times where a hearing-impaired guest walks into the store, their face brightening when Tanya makes eye contact with them and begins signing.
“To be able talk to someone and make them be heard in that way just makes their day,” Rianna said.
It’s easier for Tanya to help brighten someone’s day since the work environment is “more happy, more upbeat” than before. Even simple things like being able to hear the music from the lobby has made her experience at Pilot much more friendly.
“Shoutout to my managers for giving me an ample opportunity to prove how good I am instead of looking at my disability and saying, ‘this isn’t gonna work out.’ They’ve given me my shot and I’m running with the opportunity I’ve been given.”
