Originally from Bardstown, Kentucky, Shelby Huff has spent the last three years in Portage making Texas Roadhouse a welcoming environment. It was that kind of environment that made her decide to work with them long term.
“I've been with Texas Roadhouse almost 10 years now,” said Huff. “It was my very first restaurant job that I ever applied for. I never worked in a restaurant before, and I just fell in love with the culture and family environment that they have. The way that they treat their people and the guests coming in the building just made me want to work for them long term.”
That welcoming environment motivates Huff to keep going.
“What gets me up in the morning is going into work and creating an environment for our people that don't necessarily have the best home life,” said Huff. “I know what it's like, so I'm usually the mom around the Roadhouse. I strive to create an environment for our people that's happy and a way where they can step away from reality for a little bit. I want them to come in to enjoy their life and be with their friends and family. It is what I strive for every day, I come to run a great shift, and to make sure that my people and the guests that are coming in the building are leaving happy and fulfilled.”
Creating an escape to a friendly environment is one of the ways that Huff wants to help change the world.
“I want to try to change the world,” said Huff. “I know that I'm only one person, and even if I can only make a little change in the world or at least it is worth it. I want to create that life for people to step away from things that are going on in their personal lives.”
Huff’s advice to her younger self would be to be cognizant of where you are.
“I would tell myself to always strive for the future,” said Huff. “Remember to always live in the present, and never forget your past or where you came from. My motto that I've always grown up on is to always treat others how you want to be treated. That has been my motivation. My goal in life is to be respectful and to always show kindness and care.”When Huff moved to Portage, it was a different environment than what she was used to. The community nevertheless was easy to love as it welcomed her with open arms.
“The people in Portage are amazing, and I have met so many people here,” said Huff. “Portage has been very welcoming to me. When I moved up here, it was the first time I was hours away from where I lived. It was a really nervous time for me, and I was only 24 years old at the time. The people have been very welcoming, and I just enjoy everybody welcoming us into the community.”
In her free time, Huff enjoys going to the beach and being by the water. She also likes to refurbish furniture.