Meet Our People | Efrain Ortega – Veteran Hero and Accounting Extraordinaire
Meet Efrain Ortega, our resident Veteran and accounting master. Efrain attributes many of his qualities to the time he served in the military. Read on to learn more about Efrain and his experience in the Army!
How would you describe your role?
On the Corporate Accounting side, I set up and maintain financial reporting, review payments and expenditures, collect and monitor receivables from clients, and process payroll and 401(k) benefits. On the Project Accounting side, I review and ensure accuracy of project setup for new and existing projects, provide monthly tools to Project Managers for project analysis, ensure proper contract compliance and maintain proper documentation. I also support our Principals, Project Managers, and team members with other accounting needs.
What is your favorite part of your job?
Aside from interacting with our team, I enjoy working side-by-side with our Project Managers on all aspects of Project Accounting.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
As a young recruit in boot camp, my Drill Sergeant told me to remember this: “Every day above ground is a good day.” I’ve never forgotten that!
What is your favorite go-to meal?
My favorite go-to meal would have to be a filet mignon (medium) with a side of garlic mash and some asparagus.
What is something you do not like that people would be surprised to find out?
Perhaps it’s not just me but eating Liver; I cannot stand the smell or taste.
How many stamps do you have in your passport, and what stamps do you hope to add in the next five years?
Only stamp that I currently have is when I visited Canada, but I do plan to go back oversees and visit Italy, Spain, and France with my family.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Spend as much time as I can with my kids.
What branch of the service were you in?
Army
What made you want to join the military?
I wanted to serve my country.
What rank were you in the military?
E-4 Specialist (Promotable) equivalent to a Corporal, both ranks have the same paygrade just different roles.
How many years did you serve?
I served for 8 years and fulfilled my obligation – 3 years Active (Stationed in Italy) and 5 years Active Reserve (Stationed in Garden Grove CA).
What was your job / assignment?
72E “Combat Telecommunications Center Operator” to establish worldwide remote communications.
Did you go overseas?
Yes – Stationed at Caserma Ederly Military Base in Vicenza, Italy.
What skills from being in the military have benefited you the most in life?
There are several skills and traits that have benefited me from being in the military, including having a great work ethic, self-discipline, trust and respect, confidence, knowing how to be a good mentor and guide and empower team members, to lead by example, being a team player, integrity, empathy, and intellect.
Anything else you’d like to share about your military experience?
The military played a major role in who I am today. It wasn’t easy, but I was able to endure the training and overcome other obstacles that came my way. Enlisting in the military has been one of the best decisions I ever made, not only was I able to serve my country, but it allowed me to travel and meet/serve alongside some great people who became like brothers and sisters to me. It was a great experience!