By: McKenzie Taylor
If you’ve driven through Wabasso lately, you’ve probably noticed something big happening at
the Farmers Co-op Oil Company C-Store. The familiar gas station is undergoing a major
transformation, and behind that transformation is a team of dedicated employees led by manager
and head cook, Tam Welch.
Tam’s path to managing the C-Store started long before the first blueprint for the new building
was drawn up. With a strong background in the food industry, Tam has managed her own
restaurant and catering business and also served as the Head Cook at Wabasso Public School. It
was former manager Beth Goblirsch who first approached Tam about a position at the C-Store.
That was eight years ago—and Tam has been building the store’s reputation and menu ever
since.
“Over the years, we’ve expanded the kitchen menu to offer more options to our customers,” she
explained. “My team and I have learned to adapt with the times to provide quality products and
service for our community.” Tam is more than just a manager, on any given day, you’ll find her
prepping breakfast in the early hours, baking treats, making lunch specials, managing operations
in the office, and even lending a hand on the store floor. She’s involved in every piece of the
store’s daily operation, and that level of commitment shows.
Recently, the Co-op made the decision to retire the old building. With wear and tear taking its
toll on both the store and the fuel pumps, and the high cost of updates looming, the smarter move
was to start fresh. The new facility, modern, efficient, and built with the future in mind, is
currently underway. It will be home to state-of-the-art equipment that will allow the staff to
provide even better, faster service and a wider variety of products.
From a kitchen standpoint, customers can look forward to new offerings like broasted chicken,
Tecos Tacos, and family-friendly value meal packs. The store will also feature a large cold food
case and a brand-new coffee bar. One of the most anticipated additions is a laser touchless car
wash, located just around the back of the store. Customers will be able to use a mobile app to
sign up for monthly unlimited wash subscriptions.
Tam noted that it’s been a long planning process, but one the team has embraced with energy and
commitment. The old store has now been demolished, the previous underground fuel tanks have
been removed, and the new ones are in place. The next step is pouring the concrete and setting
up the new fuel island. Everyone is eager to see the final product come together and even more
excited to open the doors and welcome the community in.
What hasn’t changed through all of this is the close-knit team at the heart of the store. “I take
pride in my current team; it’s small but mighty,” Tam said. “As a manager, I respect each and
every employee, and I hope they understand how valued they are. I consider them my work
family.”
The store is a known supporter of community causes, and their annual Customer Appreciation
Day has become a favorite tradition. Each year, the store chooses a local organization to receive
a matching donation as part of the event. Past recipients include the Wabasso Lions, the Wabasso
Fire Department, and Best Christmas Ever. This year, the chosen beneficiary is Redemption
Ranch.
In addition to preparing for the big move, the store is also hiring. They’re currently seeking both
part-time and full-time help for kitchen and till positions—open to both adults and high school
students. “We’re looking for motivated, hardworking individuals who enjoy working in a fastpaced environment,” Tam said. “If you’re looking for a great team and a fun place to work, come
join us!”
And for those who think a gas station kitchen just means frozen foods and reheated snacks, think
again. “Most customers don’t know that many of our kitchen products are homemade,” Tam
shared. “Many of our specials, bars, and desserts don’t come from a freezer or a box. They’re
made from scratch—real, good-for-the-soul meals and treats.”
As the new building continues to take shape, Tam and her team are looking forward to
continuing to serve Wabasso with the same warmth and dedication they always have, just with a
few more modern upgrades. “We’re excited to welcome back our regular customers and meet
new faces,” she said. “Stop on in, try our products, and check out the car wash while you’re
here!”