Hearts For Service - Candice Corbin

When Candice Corbin joined the City of Chesapeake in 2019, she was fresh-faced and eager, stepping into her first role as an Accounts Payable Technician in the Human Services Department. The small team became a training ground for collaboration, patience, and teamwork. "Everyone was great there," she recalls. "I just learned so much about how to work together as a team in that role. It really helped prepare me for my current position."

Today, just a few years later, Candice has found her place as a Payroll Specialist in the City's Finance Department - a role that has challenged her, inspired her, and, ultimately, allowed her to thrive.

The transition, however, was no small feat. Payroll comes with a steep learning curve: weekly and semiweekly payroll cycles, rules and regulations, wage assignments, garnishments, and the precision required to ensure every detail adds up.

"This role was truly a leap of faith for me," she admits. "I've spent the first-year learning something new every day, and I've gotten to learn how important it is to pay attention to detail. I love balancing and spreadsheets - it's fun for me! I'm so glad I took a chance and landed in this position."

That passion for the work is evident not only in Candice's enthusiasm but also in the way she approaches her colleagues and the departments she supports. She knows her success depends on the collaboration of many others across the City. Rather than waiting on tasks to come her way, she often steps in to offer help, encouragement, or a fresh perspective.

"I know everyone is busy and handling a lot of responsibility in every department," she says. "So, when I think someone might need a little assistance to get something payroll-related done, I'm not afraid to reach out and lend a helping hand. Being able to give someone an explanation or show them a better way of doing something just makes my day."

Her dedication to helping others isn't surprising. As one of seven children, Candice grew up steeped in the values of patience, teamwork, and family.

"I'm a huge family person," she explained. "My family is my world. Whether it's my son, my nieces, nephews, or siblings - they all have their own personalities, their own ways of doing things. Being surrounded by a lot of people makes you realize that patience is the key to accepting others and getting things done. Having a work family is not very different. Both require dedication and patience."

That sense of family extends to her colleagues in Finance, where support is as much about well-being as it is about deadlines. For Candice, one of the most meaningful aspects of her job is being part of a team that values balance.

"When you have a team that stands up and says, 'Okay, we need a break, we need a reset, time for a team walk,' then you know you are working with people who value openness and togetherness and who care about you."

With spreadsheets that challenge her and coworkers who inspire her, Candice Corbin has found more than just a job in Finance, she has found her stride, her purpose, and her people.