Profile

Mr. Gary Barkman

Mesa Public Schools

Contact Details

Mesa Public Schools

Bio

This "Boomer" has six+ years of procurement experience from the private sector in both the cabinet and lumber industries starting in the early 90's through 2001, when I joined Mesa Public Schools, as a Buyer Assistant.  I became a Procurement Specialist Supervisor in 2010 and have been with Mesa Unified School District #4 for my entire public procurement career.  I came to MPS with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. During my tenure at Mesa Public Schools, I've earned the designation of Certified Professional Public Buyer, CPPB which is recognized throughout the country in the public procurement arena. 
I have served on the Board of Directors for our AZ Association of School Business Officials as the Director of Purchasing from 2015 through 2019, (originally being appointed by the Board). I've also served as Secretary for AZ State Capitol Chapter of NIGP from 2012 through 2015 and currently serve on several committees, (approximately 10) for both AASBO and AZNIGP.       
I've enjoyed raising two great children, both of which are native Arizonians and have completed their High School careers within the MPS education system.  So yes, this ole "Boomer" and his wife are now considered "empty nesters" with the exception of our three new puppy additions, a Golden "Doodle" Retriever, a Shepherd/Terrier mix and a Black Labrador Retriever, which keep things entertaining from a personal viewpoint.  I enjoy, camping, fishing, hiking and anything outdoors, when personal time allows, (yea, that'll happen).