Meet Ashok Ganesan: Agile expert and travel enthusiast with hidden talents

Ashokkumar (Ashok) Ganesan has been with PEO EIS since June 2024 as an information technology (IT) specialist and Agile coach. He brings decades of experience and uses that to provide Agile guidance, leadership and training across the PEO. He recently answered several questions that provided some insight into his background, life and even a few surprises. 

Where are you from? 

I am from Bhavani, a small village near Erode, a city renowned for its vibrant textile industry and historical significance in Tamil Nadu, South India.

Tell us about your childhood.

Growing up in a close-knit community, my days were filled with curiosity and learning. I spent a lot of time outdoors, enjoying the natural beauty and engaging in activities that fostered creativity and problem-solving skills. These experiences helped shape my character, which laid the groundwork for my future endeavors.

I understand you enjoy running 5Ks, 10Ks and half-marathons. What about running long distances appeals to you?

The appeal lies in the combination of physical endurance, mental resilience and the joy of achieving set goals, all of which contribute to a fulfilling and rewarding experience.

Tell us about your goal of traveling to all 50 U.S. states. How did that start and how much progress have you made?

My goal of traveling to all 50 U.S. states is ambitious and deeply fulfilling. It began in 2014 with a strong desire to explore diverse landscapes and cultures. Currently, I have successfully visited half of the U.S. states, and each trip has offered a wealth of memorable experiences. Looking forward, I am committed to completing this goal before 2030, as the journey continues to be a source of inspiration and excitement. 

Aside from running and traveling, what are some of your other hobbies? 

I am also passionate about watching sports, including cricket, the NFL and NCAA football. In the NFL, I support the Denver Broncos. In NCAA football, I am a huge fan of the Michigan Wolverines. Additionally, I have a deep appreciation for music.

What are you most excited about in your new role at PEO EIS?

The opportunity to contribute to developing and enhancing IT solutions that support the U.S. Army’s operational capabilities is highly motivating. Being involved in projects that directly impact defense operations and improve efficiency is both challenging and rewarding. 

What made you decide to join PEO EIS?

Overall, the decision to join PEO EIS was driven by a combination of mission alignment, professional challenges, technological innovation, collaborative culture, career advancement opportunities and strategic impact. Being part of an organization that shapes critical IT strategies and solutions for national defense was a compelling reason for joining.

What is one of your proudest professional accomplishments?

One of my proudest professional accomplishments was successfully completing a significant project that had a major impact on organizational efficiency and effectiveness. This accomplishment involved leading a cross-functional team to implement a complex IT solution that streamlined operations, enhanced system performance and met critical deadlines. The project required extensive coordination, problem-solving and stakeholder engagement. The positive feedback from stakeholders and the measurable improvements in operational metrics underscored the initiative’s success. This achievement is particularly meaningful because it demonstrated my ability to manage and execute large-scale projects while contributing to the organization’s overall success and growth. 

What started your professional Agile journey?

In 2009, I first encountered Agile methodologies and their transformative impact on project management and software development. The initial exposure to Agile practices sparked a deep interest in development, collaboration and continuous improvement principles. At that time, I was involved in projects where traditional project management approaches were proving less effective in adapting to changing requirements and efficiently delivering value. Adopting Agile methodologies offered a promising alternative and emphasized flexibility, customer collaboration and iterative progress. Since then, I have been actively involved in implementing and refining Agile processes, contributing to successful project outcomes and fostering a culture of agility within teams and organizations.

Do you have any hidden talents?

I am good at cooking and baking, with a knack for creating unique and delicious dishes. This allows me to experiment with various ingredients, techniques, flavors and recipes. Additionally, I have a strong aptitude for photography. Capturing moments and scenes through the lens allows me to express creativity and appreciate the beauty in everyday life.