Each year, the Mid-Region Council of Governments recognizes an outstanding employee from each of its divisions for going above and beyond expectations. Individuals are nominated by their peers and celebrated during an annual employee event.
This Fall, five individuals where honored as Employee of the Year in their respective divisions. Meet this year’s outstanding employees.
Kelly Benavidez, Planning Administrative Assistant
MRCOG/Transportation
“Kelly’s incredible work ethic is the cornerstone of her professional demeanor. Her ability to work collaboratively as a team player while also being incredibly reliable makes her a valuable employee any team would love to have!” wrote one of her colleagues.
Another colleague said, “Kelly is amazing! She does everything in her job description and 100 other things, always with a smile... the genuine kind! She is knowledgeable, patient, and calm, even in the face of technical difficulties during live virtual meetings.”
Congratulations Kelly!
Riann Martinez, Marketing Specialist
Rio Metro Admin / Rail
“Riann is a star employee for Rio Metro/Rail Runner and is more than deserving of this award. She is extremely knowledgeable in all aspects of her job,” said one colleague. “She is intelligent, friendly, diligent, very organized, always prepared, and contributes great ideas to enhance our mission.”
Another colleague stated, “Riann deserves this year’s award for various reasons. She not only solely runs several Rio Metro / NMRX social media accounts, but she brought character to each one and is always producing diverse content for our riders to learn and engage with. Over the past 11 years, Riann has attended numerous events, both during and outside of normal work hours, and resourcefully contributed to our transit rail and bus community.”
Congratulations Riann!
Severo “Jr.” Aragon, Transit Operator
Rio Metro Bus – Valencia County
“Severo is very kind and passionate about his Job,” stated one colleague. “He greets and treats all passengers with excellent customer service and always does his best to run on time. He is very professional and is a team-player with all Valencia Transit staff and is always early to work displaying excellent attendance.”
Another colleague wrote, “Severo is a model employee. He is kind, compassionate, and well-liked by his peers and passengers. Severo always keeps in contact with dispatch and informs his supervisors of any obstacles that may affect the company and or passengers. He is an outstanding driver and a pleasure to work with.”
Congratulations Severo!
Gary Raighn, Transit Dispatcher
Rio Metro Bus – Sandoval County
“Gary has taken the extra initiative to learn everything possible about our routing program in order to build the best routes possible,” said a colleague. “He is a big part of the reason our division has grown and we are able to help so many people every day get to their desired destinations.”
Another colleague stated, “Gary goes above and beyond when it comes to his job and helping his fellow coworkers. If a driver calls in, he will go out and drive their run. There have been times when we have had mechanical issues with the buses and Gary has helped change tires, oil, antifreeze, and other bus maintenance.”
Congratulations Gary!
Maxine Baca, Administrative Assistant / Quality Assurane Specialist
Workforce Connection of Central New Mexico
“Maxine is a super hero! She is pleasant, courteous, always knowledgeable, and usually 10 steps ahead of me in any questions I have. No matter how many stressful issues are thrown her way, she handles it with diligence and class,” said one colleague.
Another colleague wrote, “Maxine is always pleasant and helpful. She assists in getting the job done in a timely and professional manner…and in making sure deadlines are met.”
Congratulations Maxine!
