Every person in the GW Engineering community contributes to the fabric and culture of what makes us great and unique. As an institution of higher education, we often celebrate the achievements of our students and staff. However, without the tireless work of the GW Engineering administrative team, nothing would be possible. From our facilities to our technology to supporting events, the administrative team at GW Engineering keeps our school moving forward. Each month we will highlight one of the members of the admin team in our Local Hero editorial feature. Take the time to meet the people who are at the foundation of our school.
Each department within GW Engineering has its own team dedicated to supporting its community. In the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Kaydeen Taylor leads operations to ensure everything runs smoothly for students and faculty alike. Read on to learn more about February’s Local Hero, Kaydeen Taylor!

Q: How long have you been working at GW and what is your position?
A: I have been working at GW for 1 year and 3 months. I am the Department Operations Lead for the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.
Q: What led you to this career?
A: I love education and want to positively impact and shape students’ academic and professional journeys.
Q: Why did you choose GW?
A: I chose GW due to its academic rigor, diverse and inclusive community, location, networking opportunities, reputation, and global perspectives through the different programs offered locally and internationally.
Q: What is one thing you wish you’d known when you started working at GW?
A: I’ve always heard about DC traffic. I wish I would have known how long the commute would be to and from work every day. While I love my job, I’m not so in love with the traffic.
Q: What is your favorite part about working at GW Engineering?
A: I enjoy the opportunity to work in a diverse culture here at GW Engineering. It has allowed me to understand the perspectives of others, all with the common goal of getting the job done.
Q: Why would someone want to work at GW Engineering?
A: GW Engineering has a positive work culture rich in diversity and inclusion. The relationships that are built among peers encompass a workplace dynamic that is not only sustainable but enriching. Every day is an adventure in that you are always learning, always growing, and always excelling in your craft.
Q: What is your biggest work pet peeve?
A: Being late. I arrive at work an hour early before my shift every day.
Q: What’s your ideal way to spend the weekend?
A: My husband and I are major foodies who love exploring new dining concepts in the DMV area. Our weekends consist of visiting various restaurants in search of intriguing recipes that we can bring home to try ourselves.
Q: What's one of your favorite memories from the past year?
A: Attending GSEHD Fall Preview Day.
Q: Tell us something people don’t know about you.
A: I aspire to visit all 50 states and have so far visited 26 states.