JACKSONVILLE, AL — The Jacksonville McDonald’s recently celebrated the college graduation of employee John California, who earned a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology from Colorado Technical University through McDonald’s Archways to Opportunity education program.
California serves as the restaurant organization’s Operations Technology Professional (OTP) Elite and Technology Director. He has been part of local owner-operators David and Merry Neisler’s organization since 2018.
Before joining the Neislers’ team, California worked for the Delligatti family, who are credited with creating the Big Mac. In his current role, he oversees technology operations and leads food cost initiatives across the organization. According to the Neislers, his coworkers affectionately refer to him as “the wizard” because of his ability to solve technical issues.
To recognize his achievement, the Neislers and the crew at the Jacksonville McDonald’s, located at 312 Pelham Road, hosted a graduation celebration on Aug. 4. The event included a surprise visit from California’s family and representatives from Colorado Technical University.
California is also expected to travel to Colorado to participate in the university’s commencement ceremony.
His degree was earned through McDonald’s Archways to Opportunity program, which provides educational opportunities for eligible restaurant employees. The program offers tuition assistance and pathways to earn associate and bachelor’s degrees, as well as access to high school diploma completion, English as a Second Language classes and academic advising.
“We are so proud of John, but not surprised as he is an outstanding employee and an inspiration to his fellow team members,” David and Merry Neisler said in a statement. “He is just one of the many employees changing their lives for the better within our McFamily. We are so thrilled to support his aspirations and have no doubt he will continue to go far.”
McDonald’s representatives said California’s graduation reflects the company’s continued investment in employee education and professional development through the Archways to Opportunity program.
