Robert Josephs ’82: Where Are You Now?

We recently reached out to our alumni brothers to see what they have been up to since Georgia Tech. Read on to see what brother Robert Josephs ’82 had to say!

Who do you still hang out with from Zeta Beta Tau?

Being a Brother of Xi Chapter was a huge part of my life at GT.  I lived in the frat house (room 6) for three years from 1979 until I graduated in 1982.  During that time I learned how to juggle/balance priorities so that I successfully completed my schoolwork while still managing to have a LOT of fun!  These are skills that I still put to use every day!  I forged lifelong friendships with a number of my Brothers many of whom I am still in touch with today through email, phone/text messaging, Facebook, and LinkedIn.  Of notable mention are Brothers Chris Fryer, Rhys Schreadley, my roommate Jim McNamara, and my Big Brother Doug “Canuck” Ramsay.  I typically have gotten together with these guys once or maybe twice a year (pre-pandemic) with the exception of Doug as he lives across the pond in England so we are on more of a 5-year plan between visits when he is able to come here for special Homecoming reunion years.

Tell us about your family—are you married?

My incredible wife Gicelle and I just celebrated our 10th wedding anniversary this past September.  She is originally from Uruguay, South America and as such is not that big of a fan of American sports.  However, she has attended a few GT football games with me and really enjoys the atmosphere and excitement and cheers for the Jackets (even though she doesn’t really understand a lot about the game LOL!)  I can also assure you that she does NOT like anything having to do with the dwags!!  We have been living in Cumming, GA where we built our home 13 years ago.  We are surrounded by a lot of great restaurants and places to go shopping with easy access to other cities like Alpharetta, Roswell, and John’s Creek.  Our son Max just turned 26 (mine from a previous marriage) and is currently living and working in Birmingham, AL where he graduated from Samford University in 2018.

Are you advancing your education or working in your dream career?

I have been working in high tech manufacturing as a Supply Chain professional for the past 35 years. I am currently employed at Viasat in Duluth, GA where I am a Senior Buyer responsible for aftermarket services support on our large (currently up to 24 meter diameter) ground based satellite antenna systems.  It is a fast paced work environment where we supply and support commercial, government, and military customers.  I am planning/hoping to retire within the next year to year-and-a half so that the only schedules and deadlines I have to worry about will be my own!

What hobbies and talents continue to bring you joy?  

One of my hobbies which I have enjoyed since my high school days is owning “higher end” audio equipment for the enjoyment of my vinyl album (400+) collection as well as my library of recorded tapes (cassette and reel-to-reel).  While today’s generation is more prone to the instant gratification of pushing one button to listen to downloaded files or streams I grew up during the “golden age” of analog so I’m a bit more invested in turning on multiple pieces of equipment and flipping switches or tweaking settings to get the sound I want.  And who doesn’t love watching those VU meters and LED’s dance while the music plays!

 

Photo is of me sitting in our entry for the 1979 Ramblin’ Wreck Parade