We Are IT | Meet Chandra Rawat
Chandra Rawat grew up in a remote village in the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, India, and pursued an education in computer engineering. His fascination with technology's ability to connect people inspired his career in tech, eventually leading him to work at Florida State University (FSU) as an ERP Development Lead. At FSU, he enjoys helping others with ERP issues, collaborating with professionals, and has worked on significant projects like integrating the FSU Foundation funds into the financial ERP system, Concur integration and multiple ERP upgrades. Outside work, Chandra cherishes time with his family, exploring the outdoors, and staying connected with his roots through travel and technology. In addition, Chandra is an active participant in the higher education user group (HEUG) and has presented at multiple alliance tech conferences.
Where are you from?
I am originally from a remote village located in the foothills of the Himalayas. My village is in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand.
Where did you attend school?
I received my bachelor’s degree in computer engineering from G.B. University of Agriculture and Technology in India. Then, while working for FSU, I earned my master’s degree in information technology.
Why did you choose to work in technology?
Ever since I was young and growing up in the remote mountains of the Himalayas, I was always fascinated by how technology could bridge distances and connect people across the world. Despite the isolation, I saw how technology could bring education, healthcare, and opportunities to even the most secluded areas. Eventually, I learned more about computers which influenced me to pursue a career in computer engineering.
How long have you been at FSU?
I was working in Thailand for the United Nations and applied for a job online at FSU. I got the job and started my first day here on October 18, 2016.
What is your role at FSU?
When I originally started at FSU, I joined as an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Analyst 3, and I was promoted to an ERP Analyst 4 last year. In my current role as an ERP Development Lead, my responsibilities include new software application development (ERP) and providing critical support for existing ERP applications. This involves supporting key functions such as staffing, payroll, finance, and student information systems. I promptly address any issues to ensure the seamless operation of these crucial business processes. This ensures the smooth operation of this mission-critical system, vital to the university's core functions.
I also collaborate closely with ERP business analysts to identify areas for improvement and optimize the ERP system. Our team manages the entire HCM (Human Capital Management), finance, and student information systems, as well as their integrations with other applications.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
A big passion of mine is helping others and in my role, I help people with different ERP issues that they may encounter. I believe that my expertise in ERP has enabled me to help create software products and applications that can make our FSU business user’s life easier.
Another part I enjoy about my job is working at FSU provides me with the opportunity to interact with other higher education technical professionals. I am an active member of a professional organization named the Higher Education User Group, which encourages me to interact with others, learn from them, share ideas, and even hear about innovative ideas that I can learn and implement at FSU.
What is the most rewarding project you have worked on at FSU?
One of my favorite projects has been integrating the FSU Foundation funds into the Omni financial ERP. The FSU Foundation plays a vital role in supporting the university's academic vision through fundraising and funds management. This application integration, which brings millions of funds into the primary finance ERP system, marks a significant operational advancement, enhancing FSU's financial reporting capabilities. These integrated funds are readily available within the FSU finance ERP system for travel, purchasing, and other payments, aligning with the university's mission.
What is your favorite app?
WhatsApp! I love WhatsApp because it has instant messaging and video calling, which helps me stay connected with my family back home.
If you were to invent one piece of technology, what would it be?
I would develop an affordable AI-powered robot that can manage household tasks, including cooking nutritious meals, cleaning and caring for my children.
What is a fun fact about you?
I am an avid traveler and adventurer who loves exploring diverse cultures and countries around the world. I have been to a multitude of countries, including Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam, Laos, the UAE, Turkey, Cambodia, Singapore, Italy, and many others. And back when I was living in Thailand, I did a backpacking trip around Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Laos.
Talk a little bit about your family.
I met my wife through an online matchmaking site, and we got married in 2018. Together, we have two daughters—one about to turn 3, and the other just 4 months old. The rest of my family lives back in the beautiful Indian state of Uttarakhand, nestled in the Himalayas. While I miss them, and the mountains of course, living in Florida has its perks. The beaches here are truly amazing!
What do you do in your free time?
I am lucky to have Lafayette Heritage Trail Park right behind our house in the Piney Z Lake area. It is a beautiful spot, and I love walking my dog or jogging on the trails there.
