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 faculty. However, without the tireless work of GW Engineering staff, nothing would be possible. From our facilities, to our technology, to supporting events, the staff at GW Engineering keeps our school moving forward. Each month we will highlight one staff member 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 Engineering Management and Systems Engineering, Ellen Bateman leads operations to ensure everything runs smoothly for students and faculty alike. Read on to learn more about January’s Local Hero, Ellen Bateman!
Q: How long have you been working at GW and what is your position?
A: I’ll have been working at GW for two years this May as the Operations Lead in the Department of Engineering Management and Systems Engineering.
Q: What led you to this career?
A: Higher education is my career calling. I started as a teaching assistant and adjunct in graduate school and have been working at universities ever since.
Q: Why did you choose GW?
A: I chose GW for the excellent benefits, ideal location in D.C., and GW’s timeless mission.
Q: What is one thing you wish you’d known when you started working at GW?
A: I wish I had known about the numbering on G Street near SW.
Q: What is your favorite part about working at GW Engineering?
A: My favorite part about working at GW Engineering is the central location on campus. We’re steps away from so many great features of the GW campus and Foggy Bottom.
Q: Why would someone want to work at GW Engineering?
A: If you want to be a part of the action, this is the place to be.
Q: What is your biggest work pet peeve?
A: Hmm… Still wondering if I have any.
Q: What’s your ideal way to spend the weekend?
A: My ideal way to spend the weekend is reading and doing work.
Q: What's one of your favorite memories from the past year?
A: I have so many great memories from 2024 but one of my favorite memories was visiting Edinburgh Castle with my family.
Q: Tell us something people don’t know about you.
A: Something people don’t know about me is that I really dislike the horror genre and much prefer alien conspiracy content.
Q: Do you have any pets?
A: There is actually a fur grandbaby in my care called Clove. She was rescued from a no-kill shelter in Blacksburg, VA, several years ago, and now…she likes tuna and shrimp and enjoys sitting in boxes and bags.