Facilities/Safety/Trades

The Outstanding Employee awards are chosen by nominations received by the Awards Committee from all faculty, staff, and students at VIMS. They are awarded in the categories of Facilities/Safety/Trades, Research and Advisory Service, Technical Support, and Administrative Support.

We are pleased to present the Outstanding Employee in Facilities/Safety/Trades Award for 2016 to Mr. Nathan Curling.

Mr. Nathan Curling with VIMS Dean & Director John Wells following the Awards Ceremony. © C. Katella.

Nathan was raised on Hatteras Island where he learned lawn care from his uncle while fighting the island’s infamous sand spurs and mosquitoes. Nathan joined Facilities Management at VIMS in 2015. Today, his hard work and extreme dedication play a key role in keeping our grounds looking beautiful through all seasons. As a “jack of all trades,” Nathan tackles all facets of grounds keeping, as well as assisting others across campus. Despite his quiet, unassuming nature, Nathan has taken root and blossomed at VIMS.

Away from VIMS, Nathan enjoys paddle boarding, using his drone, Frisbee golf, and spear fishing. He was drawn to music at a young age, and can pick up and play almost any instrument, including the guitar, keyboard, banjo, and drums. He also loves to sing and karaoke. Nathan put these skills to good use as lead guitarist and vocalist for the local band “Reason Why,” and he and his girlfriend Erin now have a small home studio where he records and mixes music by himself and with friends.

Nathan is the life of the party and makes friends wherever he goes. A joy to his family and friends, Nathan is well deserving of this award.