Maine DOE team member Brandi Cota is being highlighted this week as the part of a Get to know the DOE Team campaign! Learn a little more about Brandi in the brief question and answer below.
What are your roles with DOE?
I am the Office Specialist for the Maine Learning Technology Initiative. I provide support for the MLTI 1:1 grant program by collecting applications, assisting in the review and approval, also with writing and processing of our contracts. I manage the billing for all of the 200 + schools in the MLTI program which includes invoicing, tracking device inventory, and processing payments. I also assist with event planning, managing the inventory of the leased devices throughout the state, and communicating with technology staff at our schools.
In addition to my work on the MLTI program I provide support for Preschool Development Grant and I am also a part of the Morale Team and the Procurement Resource Group.
What do you like best about your job?
What I enjoy most about my job is to assist in the planning of events like the MLTI student conference. Being apart of events where we are able to see first hand the innovative work that Maine students are doing with technology in our schools. Working on the morale team and spending time planning and participation in fun events with my coworkers is very fulfilling. I also enjoy getting to communicate with teachers and school staff all over the state.
How or why did you decide on this career?
After my time in the Air Force I spent most of my career working in retail management. Even though I enjoyed it I realized I needed a more reliable work schedule as a parent. I switched to the business administration career field when I moved to Maine, and I thought the Department of Education would be a perfect fit.
What do you like to do outside of work for fun?
I spend the majority of my free time with my 10 year old son, close friends and family. I enjoy watching my son play in his games, and this time of year I love watching Packers football. We also like to go to the movies, the beach, attend concerts, and traveling to new places.