By SPD Communications
Jairius Simpkins, known affectionately to the SPD team as Jai, is ever-reliable because of his “get it done” attitude. After attending Troy University and getting a degree in Human Resource Management, he knew he wanted to immediately put his skills into practice. Jai started at SPD in 2015 and has been a Personnel Analyst in the Examinations Division ever since.
“Jairius brings a positive attitude to work every day and is willing to step up wherever he’s needed,” said Exams and Certifications Manager Julie Carden. “He’s always smiling, and that really spreads to those around him.”
Jai helps applicants on a daily basis by reviewing their applications for qualifications, administering the evaluation and scoring process, and getting them placed on registers where they can be appointed by agencies with vacancies. For the last two years, Jai has mostly focused on reviewing applications for the Alabama Department of Corrections. Additionally, Jai is part of a team that travels across the state to administer tests.
“My favorite part about this job is being able to work as a team.” Jai enjoys assisting younger analysts to help them feel welcome and catch on quickly. Jai said he has the “best suite,” referring to Melissa Bazzell, Zachary Hahn, Traci Larkin, and Stephanie Ramage.
Jai also serves his country as a member of the Air Force Reserve, which he has been a part of for 17 years. Jai is passionate about assisting with the Military Spouse Transition Network facilitated by the National Association of State Personnel Executives. The program helps military spouses build careers despite frequently relocating. The SPD team thanks Jai for his consistency and dedication.