Joseph Mathis

When I was a Monroe student I drew inspiration from the success stories of our hard-working alumni.  Well, maybe my story can have as similar affect.

I began my career in 1993 as a laborer with the Department of Environmental Protection.  I noticed few opportunities in this line of work, so when I saw a pamphlet for Monroe College, I decided to enroll and continue my education.  After graduating in 2001 with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, I applied for an office position.  My friends thought I was crazy, but it paid off and I began my office career under a Junior Manager.  I learned governmental procurement and budget and capital contract administration as part of my responsibilities.  Also, I was not afraid to take on additional responsibility, because it meant increasing knowledge and skills. 

After one year, I was recruited by a Deputy Commissioner to assist with the administration of the newly created Environmental Health and Safety Division.  I learned other advanced methods of contract administration while working under one of the department’s best engineers.  After two years, I attained a staff analyst II position with the Department of City Wide Administration, which was a major jump in my career.  I learned a great deal about oversight procurement from the agency Chief Contracting Officer.

It became apparent that I needed supervisory and budget experience if I ever wanted to become a fiscal officer.  I accepted a job with the Department of Homeless Services as Deputy Director of Finance, managing $400 million dollars in Human Service payments.  During this time, I went back to school for an MBA because I needed the flexibility and competitive edge.  After three years, I attained a position with the New York City Department of Sanitation as a Senior Analyst.  I now manage $1.2 billion dollars in personnel salaries and revenue budgets.

Ten years ago, I was a laborer.  I did not just attain an education at Monroe, I got reprogrammed.  I met many great people at Monroe.  I learned that I am not my job, I can be more.  The only limits that truly exist are in the mind.  I took this statement and ran with it.  I was determined to become a manager and I succeeded.  Now, I am determined to share my knowledge with others, while continuing to advance in city government.