Name:
Dwaine Smith
How did you get to gap?
I was lucky enough to be born and raised in beautiful San Diego. After deciding I needed to finish school and join the “Adult World,” I tried my hand at several jobs that piqued my interest. I was a special education/statistics teacher at High Tech High Chula Vista. After my time in education, I tried my hand at marketing and enjoyed several aspects of my job. However, I was always interested in the numbers behind marketing and visualizing what story they were telling. I took to the web and sought out “data analyst” jobs, and after interviewing with half of the company, I was lucky enough to land at gap intelligence.
What values lead you and why?
Three values that lead me are honesty, respect, and appreciation. Honesty is the value that most people practice daily but at times may just fall short. Often it is easier for us to be honest when things are going great, however, if a mistake is made these are the times we fall short of being honest. I like to own up to my mistakes and be truthful in every situation. Honesty, however, does not give someone the right to be disrespectful. Often I hear people say "Sorry, I'm too honest!" No! You are just rude! You can be honest and express your disagreement with others and do it in a respectful manner. Having respect for people allows for open communication and a stronger bond. Lastly, appreciation is widely ignored in many aspects of our lives. Appreciating someone's effort, no matter the result, can make people feel valued. Knowing that your hard work, whether it is a new task or something you do every day is appreciated, can create a community of happiness.
What skills are you bringing to gap and what skills are you excited to learn?
I’m bringing my charm but more importantly my communication skills. My time as a teacher allowed me to communicate to a wide variety of people, my students taught me the importance of listening. It is a skill that I am always trying to improve and look to utilize at gap. I am excited to gain more knowledge in all things related to data and the often misunderstood program called “Excel.”
If you could have any superpower, what would it be, why, and what would you do with it?
Knowing every language ever created would be my superpower. I always enjoy learning about people, cultures, and places and I hate that I can’t communicate with more people. I would just travel, talk to people, read books and write about all my adventures.
What’s the quirkiest thing about you that you’re willing to admit?
I know how to crochet and can make infinity scarfs to keep us all warm during the harsh San Diego winters.
What’s your favorite thing to do in San Diego and why?
I am infatuated with taking walks in Balboa Park. I enjoy the different shades of green in the trees. The hidden trails that take you all around the park and make a challenge run. I like art and the Spanish style architecture, so stopping by the museums and art shops is a must when I am taking a walk. Plus there is plenty of great peoole watching.
If you were a box of cereal what would you be and why?
Frosted Flakes! Because I’m Gr-r-reat!"
