Abstract
“A Sustainability Pioneer at the Motor Pool”
December 15, 2015
Location: Valley Library, Oregon State University. Watch Video | Download Transcript (PDF)
In the interview, Fleming describes his upbringing in Aumsville, Oregon, his decision to attend Oregon State University, his transition to university studies, and his earliest involvement in sustainability issues. Fleming then reflects on the reasons why he attended school part-time, shares his memories of the creation of the Student Sustainability Initiative, and lends his perspective on the advancement of environmental sustainability actions during his years as an undergraduate.
From there, Fleming details his career advancement following his graduation from OSU. In so doing, he outlines his move into information technology work within OSU Business Services, his transfer to the OSU Motor Pool as a business analyst, and his hire into the manager's position at the Motor Pool.
Fleming next touches upon major changes within the Motor Pool during his years of association, including the absorption of the University of Oregon Motor Pool into a larger University Motor Pool that is managed at OSU. He likewise discusses the growth of the Motor Pool fleet, including the first inclusion in the fleet of electric vehicles and the continuing emphasis at the Motor Pool of environmental sustainability as a core value. Fleming then shares the details of archival research that he has conducted on the history of the Motor Pool at OSU, provides his sense of what the Motor Pool might look like in future years, and stresses the importance of customer service as a top priority for the unit.
As it nears its conclusion, the interview shifts focus to Fleming's volunteer activities as well as details of his family life and notes on his extracurricular activities, including his strong interest in new technologies. The session ends with Fleming's thoughts on the work culture at the Motor Pool, his appreciation of university history, and his excitement for technological advancement in the near future.