Christopher Gorski | Purchasing Coordinator | Tomball ISD
How did you get your start in school business?
Being the first in my family to attend college and get a degree, education has always been a core family value, which is why I thought of joining a school district. Additionally, I wanted to set my roots in my community and give back to it.
What do you like best about your job and where you work?
Being in the purchasing department, I am able to see the latest and greatest in K-12 education, whether it be curriculum, technology, furniture, etc. I also enjoy the great pride everyone has about living and learning in Tomball, from the community to students to staff to the Superintendent.
Why do you recommend TASBO to your colleagues? What programs and services do you find helpful?
TASBO has it has guided me through learning a new industry. I came from banking and had a lot to learn regarding district operations. With TASBO, I know I can get an answer when I have a question or run into new processes. The Purchasing and CTPA communities are filled with knowledgeable school business officials. They have yet to let me down! I also highly recommend the Purchasing Academy for all school officials - this would allow everyone to receive insight into the inner workings of their purchasing department.
What is your favorite TASBO training to attend and why?
I always enjoy hearing and learning from Philip Ellison's courses. I have taken many purchasing courses he taught, and you get everything you need out of the courses due to his extensive knowledge. He is the bee's knees in the world of procurement.
Who has inspired you in your career?
My number one is my wife! Then Zack Boles, my current CFO, and Rebecca Parker-Felder, my current Director of Finance. They have pushed and guided me in the right direction from the start.
What was your childhood dream job?
Sports Journalist
Tell us one thing people would be surprised to know about you:
I am married to my high school sweetheart! We began dating in 10th grade.
What's something you're looking forward to in the future?
Retirement and grandkids. In the more immediate future, watching my two boys grow up and achieve their own life goals.
You are working towards your certification. Let us know what it means to you to be TASBO certified.
It means I have and can master the ever-evolving world of school business. Also, it strengthens my connection to a community of other certified school business officials that I can lean on.
Anything else you would like to include?
Tomball ISD has allowed me to find my niche. I genuinely enjoy being in purchasing and couldn't ask for a better place to learn from and grow with.
