Ed Spainhower Receives 2024 Employee of the Year

The Escambia County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to recognize Ed Spainhower, Human Resources Specialist in the Employee Relations division of the Human Resources department, as the 2024 Employee of the Year. The board adopted a proclamation at the Dec. 12 meeting recognizing Spainhower as the Employee of the Year.

Spainhower reached 10 years with Escambia County earlier this year, celebrating the milestone on Feb. 4. He was recognized as the January 2024 Employee of the Month and received a proclamation at the Jan. 9 BCC meeting.

"I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the citizens Escambia County and feel privileged to work with and for the outstanding men and women of the county workforce," Spainhower said. "I feel honored to receive this recognition and am thankful for those folks that support me in my duties. I could not excel at my job without the support of those I work with."

As a Human Resources Specialist, Spainhower maintains employee records, facilitates training opportunities, oversees all FMLA and ADA processes, and educates county staff on human relations policies and procedures, all while ensuring compliance with employment laws and fostering positive relationships with employees.

Spainhower has also taken the initiative to assist in implementing policy changes, instruct training sessions for county staff, develop necessary standard operating procedures for the Employee Relations division, and play an active role in prominent internal investigations. He regularly demonstrates a commitment to adhering to regulatory county standards, carrying out his tasks with consistency, fairness and impartiality. He is eager to help develop Human Resources staff and is always willing to serve as a mentor for his fellow team members.

Beyond his job duties, Spainhower gives back to his community through acts of service. He assists elderly neighbors in his community with their property upkeep, takes them to medical appointments, and provides educational and financial assistance to unhoused and unemployed individuals. A United States Military Veteran, Spainhower donates his time and money to disabled veterans through organizations including ANVets, American Legion, Disabled Vets of America, and the Coast Guard Foundation.

"We're so proud of Ed for all his hard work," Human Resources Director Nikki Powell said. "He is an extremely valuable member of our team and always does his job with the utmost integrity. For Ed to be selected as the Employee of the Year is reflective of his passion for the job and his willingness to go above and beyond for others. We are excited for his continued success and look forward to his growth in the department."

Ed Spainhower was joined by Employee Relations Specialist Lincoln McDonald, Employee Relations Manager Troshaunda Elie, Human Resources Director Nikki Powell, Deputy Human Resources Director Janice Floyd, HRIS-Personnel Clerk Jon Lachney, and Risk Manager Mark Bartlett for his Employee of the Year proclamation.