Andrea joined the GOCO team this summer as our Controller. She spends a lot of time in Excel making sure all of GOCO's finances are in check, and has helped us build a new cash-flow model to better predict when we'll be paying out grants we've awarded. Read on to go behind the spreadsheets:

What did you do before you came to GOCO?

I was the Controller of a small family-owned manufacturing company in Denver for about four years. I began my career with Ernst &Young accounting firm in New Orleans, my hometown. Since then, I’ve worked in Houston and more recently in San Francisco. I’ve been fortunate to have different types of jobs in accounting that allowed me to not only learn about organizational processes and controls but also to travel around the country and even overseas.

What brought you to GOCO? 

It is such a unique organization that does incredible work for Colorado. I’ve always enjoyed getting outdoors and I feel lucky to live in Colorado where there is access to so many beautiful places.  I am proud to be part of a team that helps make that happen.

What has been your favorite part of working here so far?

I’ve enjoyed hearing about the different projects that GOCO has awarded and all that we have accomplished. I find that I am learning a lot about Colorado as well. But the best part of working here is the fantastic group of people that I get to work with. It is nice to work with a small group and everyone has been really welcoming since I came to GOCO in July.

What is your typical day like?

At GOCO the Accounting staff also handles Human Resources, so the day is a mix of reviewing financial information, looking ahead at forecasts involving Lottery and grant payments, making sure the administrative bills are paid, and handling any issues with benefits and payroll that may pop up. Since GOCO has such a dynamic work environment, there is always room for changes that can increase our efficiency.

What are some of your favorite things to do outdoors?

I enjoy hiking with my family and taking advantage of the bike trails all around Centennial. My kids are still young so our hiking and biking adventures are pretty low key. Skiing is not one of my strengths, growing up in Louisiana, but it’s something I plan to try more. I know my kids will be skiing circles around me before I know it!

Where is your favorite place to get outdoors in Colorado?

It is hard to pick one place but we recently went to Mammoth Lake near Granby and we had so much fun spending the day there fishing and hiking. It was such a beautiful and peaceful place. We also like driving the Guanella Pass to see the fall colors and stopping in Georgetown to walk around.

What is the coolest wildlife you have spotted in Colorado?

I was once driving down Berthoud Pass and a bear ran across the road right in front the car!