Angela Robbins is the Executive Secretary to the Civil Service Commission for the City of Watertown. With two years in this pivotal role, Angela has been dedicated to navigating the complexities of civil service, bridging gaps, and educating those around her on the often-misunderstood processes involved.

Angela’s journey began in the picturesque North Country, nestled near Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River. She attended SUNY Oswego, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education. But Angela’s path took an unexpected turn when she decided to study accounting at Jefferson Community College, which eventually led her to a role in Human Resources at a local non-profit organization. It was here that she developed essential skills, and after several years of professional growth, Angela found an opportunity with the City of Watertown, allowing her to apply her talents to public service.

Angela brings her human resources expertise to her role in civil service and maintains a strong connection to the Human Resources field through her ongoing involvement with the local SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) Chapter. This engagement allows her to stay updated on human resources trends and practices, which enhances her work with the city.

One of the most valuable lessons Angela has learned in her career is the importance of education. Civil service, she explains, is often misunderstood, and she views her role as an opportunity to guide and educate others about the system. Her background in education and people skills allows her to communicate complex ideas clearly and help those around her navigate their paths in civil service.

For those new to civil service, Angela’s advice is to slow down and take things one day at a time. “Everyone starts this journey at the beginning, and everyone makes mistakes along the way,” she says. “Ask questions and learn from those mistakes.” Her emphasis on patience and continuous learning resonates with her own journey, showing that growth is an ongoing process.

Angela acknowledges that while civil service was initially developed to be effective and beneficial, the world has changed significantly since then. In her view, the system needs modernization to reflect the values of society today, which are different from those of the past. Angela’s commitment to progress and adaptability underscores her dedication to her role and her desire to make a positive impact on the civil service system.

Outside of work, Angela enjoys an active life with her husband and their three lively Border Collies. They spend most of their free time at camp, where they can unwind and enjoy the outdoors. Additionally, scuba diving plays a significant role in their lives—Angela’s husband owns a year-round scuba company in Watertown, which means diving is a shared passion that keeps them both connected to the beautiful waters of their hometown.

Angela Robbins exemplifies dedication, patience, and a commitment to public service, balancing her role with personal passions and a vision for the future. Through her work, she not only supports her community but also fosters a greater understanding of civil service and its potential to evolve in our ever-changing world.