We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again – our employees are the reason we succeed. Sure, we might be biased, but the Memphis District team is comprised of the best of the best.
To show how much we value them, we highlight one professional every month by asking about their position, what it’s like to work for the Corps, and how they got to where they are today.
This month, we’re featuring Geographic Information Systems Specialist Lindsay Barrios. Barrios was born and raised in Fort Payne, Alabama. After graduating from high school, she moved to Tennessee to study geology and geography at the University of Memphis.
Before joining the Memphis District team, Barrios worked as a geographic information systems contractor for the Naval Facilities Engineering Command in Millington, Tennessee.
"I have also worked as an environmental scientist for the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, and as a research assistant for the Top of Alabama Regional Planning Agency," she added.
Then in February of 2018, Barrios officially became a member of the USACE Memphis District team. She said she was excited to work for the Corps for many reasons, which include the district’s mission as well as the leadership present throughout each of its offices.
"I like to help people and have always found civil service to be fulfilling," Barrios said. "I like working for an organization whose core mission involves protecting people from harm and economic loss. The leadership in the Memphis District genuinely cares about employees. I feel like hard work is always recognized. I also love that employees are encouraged to continue to grow in their careers."
Barrios’ work is the kind that impacts multiple mission areas in the district. One of her key responsibilities is gathering geographic data to create visual representations for review. She does this by using Geographic Information Systems software and other applications.
"GIS (Geographic Information Systems) touches on all of the elements of the district's mission," Barrios explained. "We provide support for flood risk management, navigation, environmental stewardship, emergency operations, and other authorized civil works."
Barrios plans to advance in her career by participating in the various opportunities provided. These opportunities include the district's Leadership Development Program and other Temporary Promotional Assignments offered throughout the year.
In speaking with those who know her, it’s clear she is an exceptional worker, and her supervisor, GIS Section Chief Calvin Jones, wholeheartedly agrees.
"She always greets with a smile and provides the team with positive energy," Jones said. "She's a teammate others know they can count on and share ideas with."
Jones also said Barrios is a great teammate and leader who is quick to lend a hand and help out however possible.
"She's customer service-oriented and provides excellent support as a Project Delivery Team member," Calvin added. "Lindsay is willing to try new things, explore alternative options, and ensure that everyone's needs are met."
Thus far, Barrios has accomplished plenty. And while she did much of the ‘heavy lifting’ herself, she is quick to give credit where credit is due.
"My college professor, Esra Ozdenerol, helped me to be more confident with my GIS software skills," Barrios said. "Also, during my time with NAVFAC, Kristy Capobianco, the Southeast Georeadiness Center Regional GIS Coordinator, taught me about leadership in the GIS sector and how to operate a regional GIS enterprise."
Barrios also said she’s grateful for the people she works with, as many played a significant role in getting her to where she is today.
"I would like to thank the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the opportunity to do what I love, and for the opportunity to be able to network and learn from amazing people from different backgrounds, all coming together to accomplish our goals," she said. "I would also like to thank my supervisor, Calvin Jones, my chain of command, Matthew Taylor, Matt Turner, other E&C leaders, and Colonel Miller, for making me feel appreciated for my work."
Lindsay is absolutely appreciated for all she does. Our district operates as efficiently as it does because of employees like her.
Thank you, Lindsay, for all you've done and all you continue to do for this district and the community in which it serves.