By Katherine Kirkaldie
Mannie Gallegos is not only finishing what he started with a 31-plus-year commitment to UW, but he finishes what he starts each and every day as a dedicated leader in custodial services.
Born and raised in Laramie, Gallegos joined the Wyoming National Guard in 1972, serving more than 20 years, and started work at UW as a janitor along the way. He currently manages all Custodial Services Department operations and employees on the north side of west campus, from Wyoming Hall to the Energy Innovation Center.
“What I enjoy most about my job is the people,” Gallegos says. “I take great pride in my people because they work hard every day. They know they can come to me, and I am open and will help them to get the training and tools and supplies they need to do their job well.”
Gallegos works to ensure that the buildings under his purview are in tip-top shape, and any concerns are addressed efficiently.
“Custodial work is kind of an art, from stripping a floor to any job—this is the kind of work where you can see the results of what you’ve done, and when my people see their work and are happy with it, and that others are happy with it, it gives them a lot of job satisfaction,” he says.
Gallegos has also served on the UW Staff Senate for several terms. “I want my people to know what’s going on throughout campus and to be here for them, to speak for them and to help them to know what their benefits and responsibilities are,” he explains.
After so many years of service, Gallegos isn’t thinking about retiring any time soon. “I really enjoy working at UW and want to continue for as long as possible.”
IMPACT: Re-envisioning custodial work as an art, and cultivating a supported, informed staff.
