APR Innovators is an Asheville Parks & Recreation series highlighting team members going above and beyond to bring huge value to community members through knowledge, connections, and insight that come from a desire to create the best city possible through the power of high-quality recreation programs and safe parks that welcome everyone.
When did you join the Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) team?
I was a masonry contractor before coming to APR in 2012. The job posting sounded like it would be a good opportunity to learn and bring my skillset to the community parks. I served in a seasonal role before taking on other positions including Laborer, Tradesworker II, Tradesworker III, and Labor Crew Supervisor in the Asset Management division before becoming a Labor Crew Manager. It gives me satisfaction to know we make a difference in our community by making parks safe and aesthetically pleasing.
How have you grown professionally by working with APR?
I have gotten my Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP), Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO), and Certified Environmental Specialist (CES) credentials, and attended Parks Maintenance Management School which has taught me a lot of different ways to accomplish goals and preventative maintenance.
Which accomplishments are you most proud of in terms of your work with the department?
We had limited resources and staff when I started. I feel we have done a great job in increasing staff and resources, which means we can better serve our community.
How have impacts of Tropical Storm Helene changed or affected the way you approach your work?
Helene has taught me not to take things for granted. We lost our river parks; it’s sad to see all the hard work the Asset Management team has put into those parks over the years and for everything to be gone – and the community will have to wait years to have everything back. But with that being said, we will have those parks in better shape than ever before.
What do you do when you’re not working?
I enjoy watching my youngest daughter play college softball, as well as giving pitching and hitting lessons.
How would you complete this sentence: I work for Asheville Parks & Recreation because…
I love making a difference by keeping our parks safe and beautiful.
Join Dwayne and other parks and recreation professionals making significant impact as they work to build a strong, healthy, and happy place to live. Current opportunities to work with Asheville Parks & Recreation can be found online.