#Duckumentaries - Evette Gross

What did you do before your time at EDA?

Before working at EDA, I worked for the Philadelphia Housing Authority for 25 years, my family-owned construction business for 10 years, and for the School District of Philadelphia for 3 years.

What brought you to the construction industry?

I have worked in the construction industry for over half of my life. It’s in my blood.

Can you briefly explain what you do at EDA?

I am the On-Call Receptionist/Administrative Assistant for Front Office Operations. I am the first person our clients, customers, and employees see so it is imperative that I make people feel comfortable upon entering the building. I am responsible for many clerical tasks and ensure that managers and employees have the internal operational support they need. Typically, I answer phone calls, handle mail and packages, manage scheduling, and handle documents on the computer.

What are some things that most people don't know about you?

I was the Vice President of Local 933 for several years while working at the Philadelphia Housing Authority. I have always been into holistic health practices and enjoy working out. Also, I rowed on the Schuylkill River in a Dragon Boat.

If you weren’t in the construction industry, where would you be today?

I would be a volunteer at my church, mentoring youth, and setting up various events.

If you could work in any other trade or department here at EDA, where would you be?

Operations or HR. 

What is the biggest challenge you've faced in work? How did you overcome it?

In my opinion, if it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you. My hope is to challenge myself to change for the better. The biggest challenge I’ve faced at work was refamiliarizing myself with technology. I overcame it because of the patience of the amazing employees that work here at EDA, specifically Sade, Adrienne and Ave. This team is an amazing group to work with their support reminds me of an old saying that my mom constantly reminded me of: “a flower doesn’t worry about competing with the flower next to it… it just blooms!". Thank you, ladies, for allowing me to bloom!

What has been the best part about your experience working with EDA?

After working for over 30 plus years I can truly say that I have finally experienced what it means “if you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life!". It took a while, but I am here, and it feels great!

What is your favorite EDA value, and why?

My favorite value is Strive to Improve! Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value. “My goal is not to be better than anyone else, but to be better than I used to be” - Dr. Wayne W. Dyer