Meet Carrara Knoetgen, the Personnel Officer for Delaware County, whose diverse background and tireless dedication exemplify the spirit of civil service. From her early days as a “Secretary’s Assistant” in her family’s construction business to her current role, Carrara has cultivated a wealth of skills and experiences that make her a standout professional.

Carrara’s journey began as one half of an identical twin duo! Her path eventually led her to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Childhood Education from Elmira College, with a middle school extension and a minor in History, as well as a Master’s degree in Information Science from the University of Albany. Her academic achievements highlight her passion for education and lifelong learning.

Her career started as a School Library Media Specialist, where she spent five years fostering curiosity and research skills in young minds. Later, Carrara transitioned into the private sector, taking on roles in sales, accounting, and human resources at Audiosears Corporation. This versatility eventually led her back to public service, where she now applies her rich professional background as Delaware County’s Personnel Officer—a role she has held for 2 and half years now.

Carrara’s work extends beyond her office. She is actively involved in Human Resources and Insurance Committee meetings and is a key member of the Delaware County Threat Assessment Team (DELTAT). Her participation in DELTAT underscores her commitment to early detection and intervention of workplace violence, an effort she believes saves lives.

Carrara takes pride in her ability to adapt and reinvent her career. Maintaining her Public Librarian’s Certificate symbolizes her commitment to her roots and the skills that continue to influence her work today. Resiliency, critical thinking, and the ability to understand diverse perspectives are among the valuable skills she has gained, which she credits with helping her grow personally and professionally.

For newcomers to civil service, Carrara emphasizes the importance of building relationships and learning the intricacies of civil service as they pertain to your role. Her advice highlights the value of collaboration and understanding within an organization.

When asked what change she would implement in the civil service system, Carrara advocates for simplifying the format of new T&E (Training and Experience) exams, drawing inspiration from past methods that were more straightforward and efficient based on the application submitted.

Outside of work, Carrara enjoys reading, hiking, cooking, traveling, attending live music events, and collecting old reference materials. Her curiosity and love for exploration extend into her personal life, making her a dynamic and well-rounded individual.

Carrara Knoetgen’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and the willingness to grow. She continues to inspire through her dedication to public service and her community.