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 our 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.
Behind every smooth operation at GW Engineering is a dedicated procurement team ensuring that resources are efficiently sourced and delivered. Leveraging their institutional knowledge and sourcing expertise, each member of this team, such as Supervisor of Accounting Shiju Varghese, plays a key role in ensuring every department and unit has what it needs to succeed. Read below to learn more about September’s Local Hero, Shiju Varghese!:
Q: How long have you been working at GW and what is your position?
A: I have been working at GW for 18 years, and my current position is Supervisor of Accounting.
Q: What led you to this career?
A: In one of my previous roles, I worked as an administrator at a technical teaching institute in India. I truly enjoyed interacting with the students, faculty, and parents. This experience inspired me to pursue a career in academia.
Q: Why did you choose GW?
A: When I came to the U.S., my employment agency assigned me a job at George Washington University. I loved the campus location and thoroughly enjoyed the diverse culture of GW and Washington, D.C. This positive experience led me to decide to stay at GW.
Q: What is one thing you wish you’d known when you started working at GW?
A: I wish I’d known just how supportive and collaborative the culture at GW is. It would have eased my initial nerves and helped me dive into team projects with more confidence.
Q: What is your favorite part about working at GW Engineering?
A: At GW Engineering, we pride ourselves on being a close-knit community affectionately known as the SEAS family. We work together as a team to support our students and faculty in achieving their goals.
Q: Why would someone want to work at GW Engineering?
A: The supportive and collaborative atmosphere at GW Engineering fosters a sense of community and teamwork, making it an enjoyable place to work. Colleagues are always willing to help each other, share knowledge, and collaborate on projects.
Q: What is your biggest work pet peeve?
A: Probably just when people don’t follow instructions when they’ve been clearly laid out.
Q: What’s your ideal way to spend the weekend?
A: Cooking, walking the dog, listening to podcasts, and attending church services.
Q: What's one of your favorite memories from the past year?
A: One of my fondest memories is meeting the families of GW students during the graduation ceremony.
Q: Tell us something people don’t know about you.
A: I coordinate the Sunday school programs at my church.
Q: Do you have any pets?
A: For the past two years, I’ve had a mini poodle dog named Teddy, who has wiggled his way into our hearts and become a full-fledged family member. He’s basically the boss now.