Katie Barrett

Engineer-Utility Privatization | Marietta, GA

The Employee Spotlight June 2020 is Katie Barrett. Ms.Barrett began at GDS as a co-op student in January 2014, during her third year at Georgia Institute of Technology.  She was able to transition into working part-time at GDS during non-co-op semesters to continue paying her way through school. Katie graduated from Georgia Tech in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering and joined the GDS Utility Privatization team full time in January 2017.  She works primarily on military utility-related contracts, including privatization, IGSAs (Intergovernmental Support Agreements), or EaaS (Energy-as-a-Service).

What has working at GDS taught you?

Outside of a lot of “technical” learning and that no one is ever truly a Microsoft Office master, I have learned a lot about how to work in a team well. Our Privatization team is like a family, and while that gives an added relationship layer to navigate, it has made my work experience much richer.

What do you enjoy doing on your day off?

I am purchasing my late grandparents’ 24-acre property, and much of my time outside of work is spent rehabbing the once-stunning gardens and converting parts of the property to focus more on food production.

What is on your bucket list?

I don’t have a bucket list as much as goals, but I want chickens, bees, ducks, and goats. And a root cellar in my basement.

Fun fact about yourself?

I run a somewhat successful craft beer Instagram and occasionally am involved with judging brewing competitions in Atlanta.

What is your favorite meal?

Currently, salads made from produce from my garden. There’s such a sense of pride wrapped up in it. Of all time, a burger and fries. Classic.