DAS Employee Spotlight Rahul Abraham

Name: Rahul Abraham
Title: Project Manager
DAS Construction Services

In recognition of International Project Management Day, which is celebrated annually on the first Thursday of November, DAS is all about appreciating the important role project managers play in our organization.

1. What do you do?
I work as a project manager for the Department of Administrative Services- Real Estate and Construction Services group, managing construction projects from design through construction to closeout.

2. Why do you work for the State of Connecticut?
I always wanted to work for a public agency because I want to put my work to improve the life of the general public and I get to do that here at the State of Connecticut being part of the Real Estate and Construction Services group. On top of that the State offers a lot of benefits and a good work schedule.

3. What is your favorite part of your job?
Visiting the construction sites and seeing the progress of the work and finally to see how the end users make use of the building.

4. What skills does it take to be a good Project Manager?
Communication is one of the most essential skills required in my opinion. In addition, negotiation, time management, problem-solving and the ability to see and plan for things 1-2 years down the road are few other skills a good project manager needs.

5. Where is your favorite place that you have traveled?
Dubai. We visited the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa and the Palm Island. Dubai is a wonderland for anyone interested in construction.

6. What would you tell someone who is interested in working for the state?
Apply today! There are a lot of interesting and complex projects the State undertakes, and you can be a part of it too. On top of that you get to put a smile on the faces of people who gets to use a new or renovated building that you were a part of.

7. If you could choose one superpower, what would it be, and why?
I would choose the superpower to teleport, this way travel to my home country (India) is much faster!

8. Where is your favorite place in Connecticut?
Harkness Memorial State Park- a place where the beach and grass meet. I love to bring my kids to the park to watch the kites flying (by John Rose)

9. Who inspires you and why?
My maternal grandfather, who I never got a chance to meet, inspired me. He was a teacher and a progressive thinker. In an era where women did not drive a car, he tried to teach my grandmother how to drive a car, although he didn’t succeed. He was a very hands-on person and built many elements of his house himself. I believe I got some of my talents from him.

10. Tell us your favorite fun fact.
The Great Pyramid of Giza was the tallest structure in the world for over 3,800 years