How I got my job: Michael Gordenko

Age: 38

Home: Blaine

Title: Co-owner and manager of Kramarczuk's (Eastern European deli)

Education: B.S. in agriculture business management, University of Minnesota

Salary: more than $60,000

How did you get this job? My father was part owner, so this was my job [since I was 14]. After graduating from college, I went and did some other things -- insurance, commodities at the Grain Exchange -- and then came back into the family business. My father passed away, unfortunately, in 2000, and then I took over [as co-owner].

What do you do, day-to-day? I'm in charge of the back-of-house production -- making the sausage, the various products. Also buying raw materials ... and running the storefront.

Career advice? Follow your heart and do what you really want to do.

When you worked here in high school were you able to talk to customers who didn't speak English? I grew up speaking Ukraine, so it was no problem -- it was great, actually.

Have you ever visited Eastern Europe? Coincidentally, I ended up marrying a Ukrainian girl who was working here. I wasn't looking for that, I had some friends that wanted [to marry a Ukrainian], but I was the one who ended up marrying one. So I did go back in 2002 [with her]. It was my first time.

How does your shop compare with Eastern Europe -- more traditional or more fusion? I think that's the charm of our place, we stick to tradition still. So many people travel to Europe now that they appreciate homemade ethno-cultural food, like Grandma used to make. But we have to incorporate the newer stuff, or more Americanized, so I think we've got a good mix -- enough of the ethnic food that we've got a real niche, but if you want a sandwich, you can get a sandwich.

So will your kids be working here? I do have a 5-year-old -- she's a little too young yet. This will probably be her first job, and we'll see what happens.