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Aug. 26, 2008

WHO HE IS: Utility A Mechanic, Carpentry Shop/ Butler Library

YEARS AT COLUMBIA: 33

WHAT HE DOES: Although Arevalo operates out of the carpentry shop, he does most of his work in Butler Library, focusing on plumbing, electrical and HVAC (heating, ventilating and air conditioning) maintenance. "It's like a handyman position," Arevalo says, "a little bit of everything."

THE ROAD TO COLUMBIA: A Vietnam veteran, Arevalo procured a job at Columbia after leaving the service, with the help of his father, who worked at Facilities in the plumbing shop. On his first day, in 1974, he was "nervous...and then glad, because I had money in my pocket." He worked as a cleaner in the residence halls for 12 and a half years before moving to the carpentry shop.

A GOOD DAY ON THE JOB: "When I don't have a flood," Arevalo jokes (while floods don't occur often, Arevalo had to contend with one just before this interview). In truth, Arevalo says, floods and the like contribute to the overall excitement and variety of the job. "It's always different, every day—you never know what's going to happen," Arevalo explains. He cheerfully tackles each day's challenges by keeping in mind the tenet: "It's all part of a good day."

MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE: Arevalo was given the task of rebuilding a bookcase that a former vice president of Facilities had purchased at an auction. Although he says he "didn't know anything about carpentry or refinishing furniture," Arevalo learned quickly and well enough to restore the bookcase to its previous splendor. "It's beautiful," he says of it, proudly.

BEST PART OF THE JOB: "Doing a good job and making people happy." Arevalo tries to complete every task he is assigned quickly and thoroughly. "I look out for the safety of the students, make sure that everything's working properly," he says. "[I] work for them."

IN HIS SPARE TIME: Arevalo likes to watch television, particularly Seinfeld and Ultimate Fighting Championship. Additionally, he enjoys sailing around Staten Island, where he keeps the 30-foot sailboat he purchased last year.