Shu-ling Garver, a
native of China, came to the U.S. in 1986 after receiving a bachelor’s degree
in English Literature from a university in Shanghai. Once arriving in the
United States, she received both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in
Computer Science and Engineering
. Garver
has worked for Intel since 1989 as an engineering manager and marketing manager
enabling the industry with Intel Architecture. At Intel, she also dedicated
herself to engaging female engineers, mentoring them and getting young girls
involved in the industry.
How did you learn
about the brand?
While I was looking for a
franchise online, I found that
Engineering for Kids is very intriguing. I had already been working closely in
that field and wanted an opportunity in an education franchise. It made sense
to me.
Why did you choose
an opportunity with Engineering for Kids?
I've always had a passion for
engineering. Providing
engineering awareness to our next generation and getting them excited about it
truly excites me. Along with my significant other, Bret, being an educator, it
seemed like this was a great opportunity to give back to the community and
build a reputable business. Moreover, I felt the two of us together is a
perfect fit to achieve our dreams.
What makes your
business unique in the community?
It’s very unique because there are very few others in the
community offering this kind of education for children. The schools are over
budgeted and there aren't many
after-school programs that are fun and this
educational. I also feel the strength of
having Bret and me leading this business in Portland area; besides my
engineering impact for the young generation, he is a unique great teacher with
the patience for children.
Are you involved
with any charities or do any community outreach with your business?
We are closely involved with the Portland Public School
District, the Lake Oswego School District and the Beaverton School District
within our territory. We provide cash donations and free classes sometimes when
needed. We are currently engaged with Zimmerman Community Center in Portland to
provide classes for children who are homeless as well.
What challenges
have you overcome to get where you are now?
I work full-time at Intel. It is very hard to find
someone else to help with managing this business to achieve the goals we’ve set
for ourselves. I found myself working all the time with no time left for myself
and what makes it even more challenging is that I have to manage two teen agers
at home. I love what I do and I’m excited to continue to build Engineering for
Kids in our community.
What are your
expansion or development plans? What is your end goal with Engineering for Kids?
I am an over achiever all my life. Bret often jokes that
I am constantly going 90 miles an hour because there is no stopping for me. One
of the growth goals is to create a center. Casey, our operations manager and I
have been talking a lot about it. We want to build the company to be a
household name like Subway or McDonald’s.
Do you have any
other interesting hobbies or passions?
My highest priority is staying
in shape. I work out. I also love to go on cruises all around the world!
