July 2018 Employee of the Month

Joel Schwab, Natural Resources

Joel Schwab Trails, and Open Lands Project Supervisor is the trail master. He is one of the most experienced trail individuals in Colorado.

Having worked for the Department of Natural Resources for the last six years, Joe and the amazing team he leads work to produce some of the highest quality trails in the state.

Joe has led the construction of sustainable trail systems for three years. During that period he and his eight hard-working crew members completed trails in Limber Pine and Hermit Park Open Space near Estes Park.

Using innovative trouble-shooting methods, Joe and his team solved a serious erosion problem at the base of one of Fort Collins most iconic features, Horsetooth Rock, by rerouting a 500-foot section of the trail.

Bringing great energy and passion to his job, Joe also uses his excellent communication skills in sensitive situations. He’s created camaraderie with his seasonal staff, encouraging a high rate of returning staff annually.

His dedication and ingenuity make Joe a key member of the Natural Resources Department.

Nominated by: Zach Cook, Meegan Flenniken and Ken Brink

August 2018 Employee of the Month

Wendy D'Erchia, Information Technology

Wendy D’Erchia, Technical Support Team Lead, takes our guiding principles to heart and often goes out of her way to touch all of them. She exceeds the requirements for her position to ensure the smoothest experience for customers, giving top-notch technical expertise, and also through her employees, too.

Wendy's job is complex, requiring her to keep abreast of everything: customers, new and upcoming projects in IT; potential problem areas, and upcoming external department projects. She ensures IT is aligned to meet customer needs, while maintaining a balance between staffing, training, projects, building moves and more. She makes sure customers get information they need, and staff has the most up-to-date training to provide it.

If there is a problem, you can be sure that Wendy will search until a solution is found. Her compassion, work ethic, and effectiveness are very inspirational. Her hard work, wonderful demeanor and excellent leadership style is a big part of why her team enjoys their work.

Nominated by Alex LaMont