Ivonne Castro Lopez: A Career Journey Fueled by Commitment to Growth

Ivonne Castro Lopez serves in a critical role at one of our key facilities as the Sanitation Supervisor for the Okeelanta Distribution Center (DC). Overseeing a team of 14 full-time employees, who are members of the Machinists Union, Ivonne has thrived as a woman in this male-dominated industry, carving a career path fueled by perseverance, commitment and an unyielding desire to grow.

Ivonne joined Florida Crystals in October 2018 as a receptionist for the Okeelanta Mill and Refinery Engineering Department, a role that marked the beginning of her remarkable rise within the organization. Though an entry-level position, Ivonne’s ambitions went far beyond the front desk. Within just six months, she secured a promotion to Maintenance Planner, taking on responsibilities such as payroll, procurement and coordinating plant activities. Each step forward reflected her willingness to adapt, learn and prepare for new challenges.

Fast forward to today, Ivonne manages the DC’s sanitation program, a critical role in a food-grade facility. Under her leadership, the Sanitation team has revamped their work processes and output.

Beyond her workplace accomplishments, Ivonne embodies resilience. She has earned two degrees over the course of the last five years while working at Florida Crystals, as she earned her bachelor’s degree at Palm Beach State College in 2020 and her master’s degree from Florida Atlantic University in May of 2023.

Her MBA pursuit was encouraged by her mentor, Angelo Archbold, Senior Director of Industrial Operations. “Angelo is somebody who pushes people to be their best professionally,” Ivonne said. “He played a big role in my career, and he emphasized the importance of education. Angelo encouraged me to never settle, because there is always room to grow.”

Angelo has high praise for Ivonne, noticing her tremendous potential from the beginning of her tenure with the company.

“When Ivonne started working with us, she exceeded expectations as a receptionist, even as she navigated the new experience of working with engineers,” Angelo said. “She was eager and willing to learn, and we added more responsibilities to her position. We always emphasize the importance of continuing education and being ready for the opportunity when it presents itself, and Ivonne followed that advice. Ivonne is dedicated, a quick learner, a leader and is not afraid of a challenge. Her story of relentless dedication and ambition is well on display at the DC, and Ivonne is a true asset to Florida Crystals with a bright future ahead.”

Balancing a full-time job, parenting two daughters, and carrying the workload of completing a master’s program was no easy task. What makes Ivonne’s feat more impressive is how she did it all while working rotating shifts, which ranged from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. or 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.

“It was insanely challenging,” said Ivonne. “The balance was the most difficult thing. I was drained between working full-time, going to school, doing my homework and taking care of my daughters. I had some nights where I only slept for four hours. I don’t even know how I balanced it myself sometimes, but I knew I had to set an example for my daughters. I gave 100 percent at work, 100 percent at school and 100 percent to my family.”

Ivonne not only survived the chaos but thrived in it, completing her master’s degree on schedule in May of 2023. She did not allow her schoolwork to interfere with her work, and in August of 2022 made the jump to the DC as a Quality Control Auditor. The career ascension continued, as Ivonne earned the promotion to Sanitation Supervisor in November of 2023.

During her tenure at the DC, Ivonne and her team’s work has been recognized with several accolades. She earned the company’s Quality Recognition Award in both March 2023 and July 2024 and, additionally, led the sanitation team to the Quality Recognition Award in December of 2024.

Ivonne credits Florida Crystals for much of the support she received along the way. Through the company's tuition reimbursement program, she was able to pursue her education without taking on a financial burden. Mentors like Angelo and Shari Hanauer, Senior Director of Operations, Project Management, also played pivotal roles in encouraging and guiding her growth.

Shari in particular stood out to Ivonne as a role model. “We are in an industry dominated by males,” Ivonne shared. “Seeing Shari work, I thought to myself, ‘I can’t give up.’”

Looking back, Ivonne is filled with gratitude—not just for her professional successes, but for the teamwork, colleagues and mentorship that helped her flourish along the way. “If you had asked me six years ago when I was still a receptionist whether I’d still be here, I would’ve said ‘no,’” she recalls. “But Florida Crystals opened so many doors for me and has shown me that there is so much room for growth and improvement. I am infinitely grateful for this company and its tuition reimbursement program.”

Ivonne’s story is a testament to perseverance, grounded in hard work and resilience. From her daughters to her colleagues, she continues to be a source of inspiration for those around her. And as she looks ahead, Ivonne remains eager to learn, lead and set an example for others breaking into leadership roles in different industries.

Her advice to women looking to shine? “It’s never too late to start to pursue your dreams or go back to school to further your education. Believe in yourself, trust your abilities and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Sometimes, we’re too scared as women for our work to shine. But I have spoken up plenty of times, because I want my work to be recognized. I have faced many challenges leading my team, and I had to adapt. Industry changes happen and trends change, so we must adapt to these new changes to move forward. If you see an opportunity, apply. How do you know what you’re missing out on if you never apply and go for it?”