Some careers are planned. Others are simply destined.
For Karla Garnica, Area Coach (AC) of Area 25 for Desert de Oro Foods (DDO), working in the restaurant industry wasn’t just a job, it was part of who she was from the very beginning.
Karla grew up in California in a household where work ethic was a way of life.
“Everybody went to work,” she recalls. When she turned 16, Karla couldn’t wait to do the same. A simple family meal at KFC led her to ask for an application, and that moment changed everything!
“I think it’s just what was meant to be,” she says.
Growing Up with KFC
Karla joined KFC at 16 and quickly proved she belonged. By 18, she had already worked her way up to Restaurant General Manager (RGM), an achievement that set the tone for her career. Leadership came naturally to her and she consistently aimed high, earning RGM of the Year honors three years in a row and being recognized as “Best of the Best” during her time as a general manager.
At one point, Karla stepped away from KFC for about six years, but the connection didn’t fade.
“This was what I loved and what I knew how to do with my eyes closed,”
– Karla Garnica, KFC Area Coach
A New Chapter in Texas
Roughly 20 years ago, Karla moved to Texas at age 33, initially working in real estate flipping houses. When the market shifted, she found herself at a crossroads – and she knew exactly where to turn!
Karla returned to the restaurant world as a manager and soon transitioned into managing “KTs” – a KFC/Taco Bell combination restaurant – a challenge she embraced wholeheartedly.
“KTs are hard,” Karla admits. “But once you manage a KT, you just can’t go back to a standalone [restaurant].”
For Karla, managing a KT wasn’t just about staying busy, it was a point of pride. It represented trust, capability and growth. “If someone has the confidence in you to run a KT, you’re at a higher scale of manager,” she explains.
Stepping into Leadership at DDO
In 2015, when we acquired the company she worked for, a new opportunity emerged. Karla had been managing a KT for three years at that point, and also served as a trainer when an AC vacancy opened up with us. At first, she hesitated.
“I said, ‘No, leave me alone. I’m good where I’m at. I love what I’m doing,’” Karla recalls.
But someone else saw what Karla didn’t yet see in herself. A legendary DDO leader named Wallie Jaso nominated her for the role, believing Karla had the potential to succeed at the next level.
“If Wallie had confidence in you, you knew you could do it, and that she’d help you along the way,” Karla says of the late leader and training coach.
That belief made all the difference.
Though the transition was intimidating, Karla leaned into it with an open mind. She credits her willingness to embrace change for helping her grow.
“Most people reject change, but I don’t,” she says.
“Change is good. Even when it’s hard, it helps you grow.”
– Karla Garnica, KFC Area Coach
Leading with Purpose
Today, Karla sees her AC role as an extension of what she’s always loved most: teaching, training and supporting others.
“It’s like having your own team,” she says. “But instead of leading a lot of people directly, you’re helping leaders lead their teams.”
What sets DDO apart, in Karla’s eyes, is authenticity. She also values our commitment to growth, noting that learning never stops. Through leadership programs, training and personal development opportunities, DDO consistently invests in its people.
“DDO walks the walk. They genuinely care about customers and their people.”
– Karla Garnica, KFC Area Coach
Looking Ahead
Whether the future holds another leadership step or continued success as an Area Coach, Karla remains grounded, grateful and driven.
“The possibilities at DDO are great,” Karla says. “You can grow as much as you want. It’s up to you what you want in life, and DDO can help you get there.”
So what are you waiting for, apply today!