Venkata Tanguturi, Lead Database Administrator Information Technology Department
Q:
How long have you been with SFWMD?
A:
11 years, 5 months
Q:
What is your role at SFWMD?
A:
My title is LEAD, DATABASE ADMINISTRATOR. I manage/maintain District databases and applications.
Normally, my day starts at 8:00 a.m. in the office by making sure all the databases and applications are online. If we have any emergencies, then time will be spent on resolving the problem(s). If there were no emergencies, then it's working on the current projects, attending meetings and helping other users to solve their problems.
Q:
What made you choose a career at SFWMD?
A:
When I was a graduate student at Florida Atlantic University, I worked as an intern for one semester at the District. After graduating I was looking for an Oracle developer position, then I came to know an opening at the District. The District had cutting-edge Oracle technologies in the IT department, so I joined the District in 1995.
Q:
What kind of education or training have you received from SFWMD? How was it beneficial?
A:
I have received just-in-time training in Oracle technologies like Oracle Developer Suite, Designer, Database Administration and Application Server Administration. Also, I got training in Project Management, Personal Management and other technologies. Currently I am pursuing an MBA from FAU as a part-time student, for which the District pays the tuition and 50% of other costs.
The training with real hands-on experience in technology enabled me to complete a variety of projects successfully.
Q:
How would you say you've grown in your career at SFWMD? Both personally and professionally.
A:
After joining as an entry level software developer then moving to different divisions/departments in different positions and learning new things, now I can say that I am personally and professionally more mature and face any challenge confidently.
Q:
What do you enjoy about SFWMD?
A:
People I work with and the people I work for.
Q:
What is your proudest moment at SFWMD?
A:
My proudest moment was when I was recognized as a member for "Team of the Month" by Governing Board members.
Q:
What makes SFWMD different from other companies?
A:
The District implements cutting-edge technologies compared to other companies. In doing so, the District enables employees to grow. Also, the District has a very good family insurance policy compared to other companies.
Q:
What would you tell a friend who is considering a career at SFWMD?
A:
If you want to work for an agency that manages a very sensitive ecological region and be a partner in helping save the region, SFWMD is the place for you.
Q:
In three words, how would you describe SFWMD and/or a career with SFWMD?
A:
People, Training, Growth
Karen Estock, Director West Palm Beach Field Station
Q:
How long have you been with SFWMD?
A:
In June 2007, it will 3 years that I have been with SFWMD.
Q:
What is your role at SFWMD?
A:
My title is Division Director of the West Palm Beach Field Station. This is the largest field station of the 8 field stations at SFWMD. We consist of a staff of 100 employees.
Q:
What made you choose a career at SFWMD?
A:
Prior to working at SFWMD, I was employed with the US Army Corps of Engineers for 23 years. I worked closely with SFWMD. I really admired the philosophy at SFWMD and decided to make the move from Federal to State employment. I saw an opportunity to grow and to take my career to the next level at SFWMD.
Q:
What kind of education or training have you received from SFWMD? How was it beneficial?
A:
The training that I receive mostly at SFWMD is in the HR area. I have learned about Employee Performance and Policy and Procedures. The training has helped me manage employee issues.
Q:
How would you say you've grown in your career at SFWMD? Both personally and professionally.
A:
Professionally, this position has given me the opportunity to work within a healthy budget and utilize the abundance of resource capabilities. It is also exciting and challenging to manage 100 employees. Personally, I enjoy the challenges that allow me to learn about people and management.
Q:
What do you enjoy about SFWMD?
A:
First, I enjoy the people I work with at SFWMD, they are fantastic. Second, I love the challenging work.
Q:
What is your proudest moment at SFWMD?
A:
I am really proud of my ability to fill the open vacancies with new staff members. The new staff has a new skill set that will allow us to continue to grow in the future.
Q:
What makes SFWMD different from other companies?
A:
The philosophy of the agency towards Everglades restoration construction is unprecedented. There is a "can do vs. a sit back" approach which allows for a faster growth of design on new construction projects.
Q:
What would you tell a friend who is considering a career at SFWMD?
A:
At SFWMD, you will receive a lifelong career. The work is challenging and rewarding. They offer excellent benefits, and a strong emphasis on balancing career and home life.
Q:
In three words, how would you describe SFWMD and/or a career with SFWMD?
A:
"Life is Good."
Ricardo Valera, Section Leader
Lower West Coast Service Center
Q:
How long have you been with SFWMD?
A:
Originally I was with SFWMD for 5½ years and have recently returned and have been back with SFWMD since January 2007.
Q:
What is your role at SFWMD?
A:
I am Director of Regulatory Operations on the West Coast. I am overseeing the environmental resource permitting, water use, enforcement and post-permit compliance.
Q:
What made you choose a career at SFWMD?
A:
I chose SFWMD to solidify a career in water preservation. I also chose SFWMD to be able to work with the public, manage the natural resources and provide public service to the community.
Q:
What kind of education or training have you received from SFWMD? How was it beneficial?
A:
I have received quite a bit of training in my time with SFWMD. I have received technical training, consultation, HR and personnel training. This allowed me to continue growing as a leader at SFWMD.
Q:
How would you say you've grown in your career at SFWMD? Both personally and professionally.
A:
I have grown tremendously. It has been fantastic and has provided me with an extensive background. Both at home and work I am committed to the challenge which I take very seriously 24/7.
Q:
What do you enjoy about SFWMD?
A:
I enjoy giving back to the community. It makes my feel good to know that I am helping others, similar to the "Pay It Forward" motto.
Q:
What is your proudest moment at SFWMD?
A:
There have been numerous proud moments at SFWMD. I mostly take pride in the human component, seeing the new hires blossom into their incredible career paths. I enjoy being part of the hiring process and giving my input. I also take pride in seeing the positive results occur in the service center.
Q:
What makes SFWMD different from other companies?
A:
As one of the largest water management government agencies in the area, they keep the focus on the task, the vision and the value of preservation of the area's water supply. They are also equally committed to the people and it is rewarding to be part of this winning team.
Q:
What would you tell a friend who is considering a career at SFWMD?
A:
I would tell them of the importance of the service that we provide to the community. How we manage to help and protect the water supply and that I encourage them to join us as there are plenty of opportunities.
Q:
In three words, how would you describe SFWMD and/or a career with SFWMD?
A:
Rewarding, Fulfilling, Commitment to our community.
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