October Females in Food Spotlight Award: Maggie Schnell, Technical Sales Manager at Grande Custom Ingredient
This month, we are delighted to celebrate Maggie Schnell, a woman whose career journey is defined by curiosity, courage, and a commitment to personal growth. With a lifelong love for science, Maggie pursued a degree in chemistry and found her way into the food industry early on — a path that allowed her to blend technical knowledge with creativity.
Over the course of seven years in quality and food science roles, Maggie discovered a passion for building relationships, problem-solving, and connecting with customers. That passion led her to take a bold leap into technical sales, where she now thrives.
“I love the complex challenges we get to solve with our customers and the food industry as a whole,” she shares.
Among Maggie’s proudest achievements is going back to school to earn her MBA while simultaneously pivoting into a new professional chapter. These were both daunting undertakings, but Maggie embraced the discomfort and came out stronger for it.
“Growing up, I would back down from situations that felt too uncertain,” she reflects. “But I have learned to trust myself — I can do hard things.”
Her honesty about dealing with imposter syndrome will resonate with many. Maggie has found tools that work for her, including a “wall of motivation” filled with kind notes and affirmations she has received over the years.
“If I cannot talk myself through a hard moment, reading those helps remind me of the impact I have had on others.”
Maggie’s drive is fueled by teamwork and healthy competition. She finds energy in collaboration, goal-setting, and being surrounded by people who challenge and support her. Whether she is working on a business solution or knitting a sweater (a personal goal this year!), she shows up with intention and tenacity.
As an advocate for other women in the food and beverage industry, Maggie lifts others with her words and actions.
“I think many of us suffer from imposter syndrome,” she says, “and I am a good hype woman. I always encourage women to advocate for themselves and remind them how much they are truly doing.”
Her advice for women in this field is simple yet powerful: Speak up for what you want, and always be kind.
“You never know where your next connection will come from,” she says.
Outside of work, Maggie is a lover of the outdoors and a former high school athlete who competed in six sports. One of her proudest personal accomplishments was completing the Angel’s Landing hike at Zion… solo.
Maggie, your openness, energy, and encouragement are exactly what this community is all about. We are so proud to spotlight you this October!
