A 2012 graduate of the Clearfield Alliance Christian School, Akasha Goins, first aspired to work on the business end of entertainment.
But, after a year at a private college and finances getting tight, Goins returned home and transferred to Lock Haven University Clearfield in the spring of 2014.
Business and management remained in her career plan, and she began her pursuit of a Bachelor of Science in business administration at LHU Clearfield.
“My experience at Lock Haven University Clearfield prepared me for my career and work life,” said Goins.
As part of her educational experience, Goins also completed an internship at the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) office in Clearfield. As a community relations assistant, she gained valuable experience.
“It was a wonderful opportunity,” said Goins. “I assisted with delivering presentations on safety issues and distracted driving. I also worked on writing press releases on construction projects. It helped to develop my communication skills.”
Upon graduation from LHU Clearfield in spring of 2016, Goins landed a job as a financial analyst in The Philadelphia Navy Yard for The GBS Group.
The GBS Group provides technical services and products to commercial, government and industrial clients across the energy, federal and transportation sectors.
According to Goins, “We offer a range of services, including maintenance engineering, enabling technology designs and applications, software development, controls and automation systems, and life cycle maintenance and management.”
She added, “I support active federal contracts through financial analysis and tracking and manage all of our Department of Defense (DOD) contractual financial reporting for the Philadelphia Division.”
Additionally, she is responsible for all financial communication with DOD clients and helps with internal finance functions such as payroll and employee coverage analysis.
While working at The GBS Group is a bit different than the entertainment industry, Goins is using the business, financial management and relationship development skills that she learned at LHU Clearfield. “I am really excited about this opportunity and appreciate the support and education that I received at LHU Clearfield.”
According to Paul J. Obenreder, assistant professor of business at LHU Clearfield and Goins’ advisor, her potential for a great career is limitless. “Akasha was a great student and an even better person. She is another one of our wonderful success stories.”