By Felicia Thompson, OPACE

Team members proudly hold their recognition coins for collaboration, one of FSIS’ Core values. Pictured, front row, from left: Consumer Safety Inspectors (CSI) Michael Raymond and Jessica Carter. Pictured, back row, from left: Chicago District’s Deputy District Manager Dr. Tamara Davis, CSI Marco Cervantes, and Food Inspectors (Exports) Myra Kramp and (Imports) Curtis Judgeware. Photo by Frontline Supervisor Dennis Wlasiuk, OFO.

On Oct. 27, Dr. Tamara Davis, a Chicago District deputy district manager, presented inspectors in the Dearborn, Michigan, circuit Collaborative recognition coins. The employees, who are assigned to different establishments, received the coins for their efforts in working with their Frontline Supervisor (FLS) Dennis Wlasiuk and other FLSs in the Chicago District to ensure seamless execution of the Agency’s mission during the COVID-19 pandemic. The inspectors protected the public’s health without interruption throughout Fiscal Year 2021 when they staffed egg products, livestock slaughter and processing, and import and export establishments.

“The team stepped up, covered additional facilities, and volunteered to travel to other circuits throughout the four states of the Chicago District to provide inspection duties where they were needed. This made us more flexible and allowed other circuits in the district to receive the help they needed,” Dr. Davis said. “Their efforts are an excellent example of team members working together to ensure the Agency’s mission is accomplished.”

Team members share their thoughts about public service, working at FSIS and being recognized with a coin.

Front row, from left:
Michael Raymond has been with FSIS for more than 10 years. He’s assigned to Establishment (Est.) 2574D in Detroit, Michigan. “I chose public service so I could do right every day. I like having a job where doing the right thing is the only thing that matters. The results of our work don’t always seem tangible since we don’t get notified every time a family eats dinner and doesn’t get sick, but I find great satisfaction in performing our crucial mission of keeping food safe and wholesome every day. Everyone in FSIS works toward the same mission. We all have the same impact. It was nice to get some extra recognition during one of the more trying times in our country’s history. No matter how difficult things get, people need to eat, and they shouldn’t have to worry if their next meal will get them sick.”

Jessica Carter is a 14-year FSIS employee assigned to Est. 10125 in St. Clair Shores, Michigan. “I chose to work for public service to give back to my community. I love my job! I feel a sense of purpose and value to work for FSIS knowing that I am keeping the public safe. By giving the job 100 percent every day, it lets the Agency know that the public is in good hands. I am honored to receive the collaboration coin.”

Back, row from left:
Dr. Tamara Davis.

Marco Cervantes is assigned to Est. 6939 in Roseville, Michigan. He has been with FSIS for six years. “I chose this career path because public sector employees report feeling like the work they do benefits humankind, not just commercial profit-makers. I see the role as a way of developing my career in a forward-thinking, in a well-established Agency. I protect the public’s health, even if it means traveling to other states and working seven days a week. I am honored! Awards recognize hard work and achievements, and they can boost employees’ morale and motivation, as it acknowledges their contribution to your Agency’s success.”

Myra Kramp has been with FSIS for 14 years and works in Hamtramck, Michigan, at Est. V-3463. “I worked as a trimmer in a poultry plant for 10 years prior to applying for FSIS. I felt that I could contribute more, learn more, and travel more as a public servant. The job is very fulfilling. I love being able to interact with industry and learn about the different processes. My current position as an export inspector is important because I not only verify that US product meets the standards of other countries, but also when returned to the US for any reason, the food item is still a wholesome product before being released into commerce. It feels good to receive recognition for a job well done.”

Curtis Judgeware is assigned to Est. I-265 in Hamtramck, Michigan. He has been with FSIS for nine years. “I chose public service because I wanted make a difference in the world and protect public health. My job means a great deal to me. It offers me financial security and challenges me to be a better me. My job impacts the Agency by keeping the food source safe throughout the world. Receiving the collaboration coin shows appreciation to me from the Agency at this difficult time, and I am very honored to have received this token of appreciation.”

Photos by Dr. Davis, OFO.