Nelson Granados is September Employee of the Month

Nelson Granados, general maintenance tech in Facilities and Campus Operations, is a critical part of George Mason University’s Science and Technology Campus team. His colleagues know him for his outstanding workmanship and his willingness to help. For his capability and his dedication, Granados has been recognized as the September Employee of the Month. 

“For many years, Nelson has been a pillar of the SciTech Campus, quietly and diligently working behind the scenes,” said Colby Grant, director of administration and operations at SciTech. “His dedication and work ethic are unparalleled, and his craftsmanship reflects the highest standards of quality. He approaches every responsibility with an unwavering commitment to excellence.” 

“Nelson's dedication and positive attitude have not gone unnoticed, and he consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that everyone has the support they need,” said Ronnie Wells, SciTech facilities zone manager. 

Carrie McVicker, associate director of Facilities and Operations, said Granados is attentive, responsive, and prompt. “Nelson consistently demonstrates an appreciation for all research and academic activities on campus by working with us as we grow our programs and need a service or repair. His ability to balance the needs of the university’s mission with those of the academic units has earned him respect among faculty, staff, and peers.” 

How did you come to Mason:  

Granados has worked on the Science and Technology Campus for more than 20 years. In fact, he remembers the date he started: May 31. “So it’s been 20 years and three months,” he said.  

It was a friend who told him about the job and suggested he apply to George Mason. “And I got the job,” he said. 

Over the years, people have suggested he apply to jobs at other campuses so he could be closer to where he lived, shortening his commute, but Granados didn’t want to make a change. “I always said no,” he said. “I like it here. My coworkers are nice people.”  

What do you like best about working at Mason:  

Granados said he enjoys his job and the work, but what is really important to him is the teamwork and the camaraderie. Just as his nominators spoke of his willingness to help, that’s what Granados appreciates most about his colleagues—that they are always willing to lend a helping hand. 

And he knows almost everyone on campus. He enjoys greeting people throughout the workday. “Around the campus, you always find nice people. They know me. They always try to say hello or call to me ‘How you been?’”  

What do you like to do when you’re not working:  

When not at work, Granados said he and his wife have started talking about and planning what they want to do when they retire. “I don’t want to retire, but I know one day that will come,” he said.  

In his retirement, Granados would like to take some classes and work on his computer skills. “In technology, everything is growing so fast.”  

He said he also plans to stay active, which he jokes is also important to his doctor.