Meet the Staff: Matt

We started a series of interviews with the GCFLearnFree.org staff in the fall but we didn’t quite get around to everyone before the holidays. What staff interview series would be complete without hearing from our fearless leader, Matt?

What led you to working at GCFLearnFree.org?

I started my career teaching History and Theory of Architecture at Penn State and NC State. I was working on my Doctoral Dissertation (and on my way to a career in academia), when I stumbled across a job opening for a Curriculum Writer. I was between teaching positions and it sounded interesting, so I applied. Well, the short story is the job stuck. Over the last decade I have worn many hats – from curriculum writer, web designer, flash and asp.net programmer, to finally my current role as manager of the entire GCFLearnFree.org team.

What project are you most proud of while working here?

Well, I would have to say my ongoing project of building the ideal team – I have had the pleasure of assembling an incredibly diverse team of talented, creative, and dedicated individuals to work on this project. And, I can’t wait to see what everyone does next!

What is your favorite thing about working at GCFLearnFree.org?

Honestly, I had never even considered working for a dot-org, but now I can’t imagine another career path. Knowing that what we do everyday helps thousands of people around the world in their daily lives is incredibly rewarding.

Describe a “typical” work day for you.

There is never a “typical day.” I usually get to the office early so I can blast some music and catch up on emails and project docs before everyone gets here. Then I spend the rest of the day bouncing from project to project – I manage to be involved in a variety of projects. I do a little bit of everything around here – last fall I even modeled for photos in our Digital Photography topic!

How would your co-workers describe you?

Obsessed with bikes. And heavy music.

What’s one thing you wish people knew about GCFLearnFree.org?

We joke that no one in Raleigh really knows what goes on behind the door across the hall from our local Goodwill Store – if they only knew that a small team works to impact the lives of millions of learners around the world!

Which super power would you have and why?

Well, I would gladly trade my current superpower – super scent – for something more, well, super. I mean, saving my coworkers from drinking spoiled creamer is fulfilling, but I kind of wish for something more dramatic – like wielding an electric guitar that zaps bad guys or something…

Where is the most interesting place you have ever visited?

One awesome thing about this job is that I have had the opportunity to make several trips to Africa. Over the last several years, I have been to Ghana, Zambia, and South Africa. I think the Western Cape area was the most fascinating place I have ever visited – I would love to spend more time in Cape Town.

We have one more interview left – ME!