Melissa Wick brings dedication, depth of knowledge, and a genuine passion for public service to everything she does in civil service administration. With more than a decade of experience and a strong connection to her community, Melissa exemplifies the values of merit, fitness, and service.

Melissa grew up in Colonie, New York, with deep family roots in Schoharie County. After graduating high school, she earned an associate’s degree in Graphic Design from SUNY Cobleskill. While pursuing her bachelor’s degree, Melissa and her husband Steve followed their hearts back to the country, purchasing a charming old farmhouse outside Cobleskill in 2010. That same fall, she completed her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from College of Saint Rose.

Melissa and Steve are the proud parents of their 14-year-old son, Jonathan – yes, truly “Jon Wick”! Their family also includes their beloved dog Murphy and cat Scarlett. Outside of her public service career, Melissa is currently helping Steve launch a new side venture: a mobile wood-fired brick oven pizza trailer, an exciting new chapter they are tackling together

Melissa has served as the Senior Personnel Assistant for Schoharie County for a little over 13 years. As one of only two staff members in the department, alongside the Personnel Officer, she handles all phases of personnel and civil service administration for the County. Her work spans exam administration, eligible list maintenance, classification, recruitment, application review, payroll certifications, onboarding, research, and guiding agencies and employees through the complexities of civil service law. Her breadth of responsibility speaks volumes about her expertise and commitment.

Melissa previously served as the last Election Committee Chairperson for Civil Service Employees Association. She is also actively involved in her community, volunteering with her son during Schoharie County’s Youth Service Days over the past several years.

One of Melissa’s most notable recent accomplishments has been successfully implementing the NYHELPS Program in Schoharie County. To date, approximately 120 titles have been approved under the program, dramatically reducing the County’s provisional rate to nearly zero and helping fill dozens of positions. For Melissa, however, achievement isn’t just measured in numbers—it’s also found in helping agencies, officials, and employees navigate challenges and better understand HR and civil service processes, something she’s proud to do every day.

Starting her career in her twenties, Melissa describes herself as “completely green,” grappling with impostor syndrome and a fear of public speaking. Over time, experience and perseverance transformed that uncertainty into confidence. Today, she is known for her critical thinking skills and her ability to analyze issues from all angles to anticipate outcomes—an invaluable approach in public administration.

Melissa’s advice is thoughtful and grounded: don’t try to learn everything on day one. Take time to read the law, rules, CBAs, and policies—print them, highlight them, and revisit them often. Even after 13 years, she still relies on these resources daily. She encourages newcomers to ask questions, trust their instincts, and remember that while the role may be small, its impact is significant. Merit and fitness—and the constitution—truly matter.

When asked what she would change about the civil service system, Melissa notes that many of her past concerns are already being addressed—such as counting provisional time toward probation and the shift toward more T&E exams. While change takes time, she is optimistic that the ongoing transformation will ultimately benefit civil service administrators, appointing authorities, and employees alike.

Outside the office, Melissa is an artist at heart. Dancing has been her lifelong passion since the age of five, and she continues to take weekly classes and specialized workshops. She also enjoys painting, sketching, graphic arts, photography, and singing. When the weather is warm, you’ll find her swimming, camping, hiking, or gardening, and she loves attending concerts and baseball games with her husband and son.

Melissa Wick’s career reflects professionalism, resilience, and a deep belief in the principles of civil service. Her work continues to make a meaningful difference in Schoharie County and beyond!