Rhela McCoy Receives November 2024 Employee of the Month

The Escambia County Board of County Commissioners is proud to recognize Rhela McCoy, Administrative Assistant in the Engineering Department, as the November 2024 Employee of the Month. The board adopted a proclamation at the Nov. 7 BCC meeting recognizing McCoy as the Employee of the Month.

McCoy celebrated a career milestone with Escambia County earlier this year, reaching 30 years of service on June 6. She joined the Engineering Department in 2009 and since then, has become the go-to person for her team members.

As Administrative Assistant, McCoy manages public records requests, performs human resources functions, and manages schedules for the Construction Management and Stormwater divisions. When a new employee joins the department, McCoy springs into action, coordinating any required supplies and ensuring they feel welcomed on their first day. Anyone who calls the Engineering Department will be greeted by McCoy's cheerful and helpful disposition, something her fellow Engineering staff members have celebrated her for. She is seen as a source of inspiration for the department and has built strong relationships with other county employees, outside agencies, vendors, and Escambia County residents over the last 30 years.

"Rhela is a force within our department," said Director of Engineering and County Engineer Joy Blackmon, P.E. "There is no one else who cares more about helping the residents, which comes across in her compassionate nature and ability to provide customer service. She cares very deeply about the employee morale in the Engineering Department, and proves that by providing amazing elements of fellowship, determination, teamwork, and a desire to do her best in all situations."

In addition to her regular administrative duties, McCoy has been a key member of the effort to secure grant funding for county projects over the last four years. Since July 2020, the Construction Management and Stormwater divisions have applied for over $100 million in grant funding.

Outside of her duties with Escambia County, McCoy is a dedicated member of her church and has taught a special needs Sunday School class at Hillcrest Baptist Church for over 20 years. She enjoys spending time with her three grandchildren, who lovingly refer to her as "LaLa."

"I am humbled and honored to accept this recognition," McCoy said. "I am here only because of the amazing individuals who I am grateful and blessed to call my at-work-family. Joy Blackmon, thank you, especially, for gathering me into Engineering 15 years ago. Rob McCracken, your wisdom, foresight, encouragement, and constant positivity is truly a guiding light to all of us. The work this department accomplishes daily makes me proud of our community and continues to inspire and challenge me to be better. So, to my at-work-family, your love and belief in me have been an anchor and a blessing. I am thankful for each one of you. Thank you for again for this honor. I hope you will be assured we will continue to strive for excellence in the work and service we provide for the citizens of Escambia County."

Rhela McCoy (center) was joined by Engineering staff members for her Employee of the Month proclamation at the Nov. 7 Board of County Commissioners meeting.