Tommy Roy is Town "Employee of Year"

IT Technician Tommy Roy, who helps keep the town's computer systems up and working, has been named the Town of Clayton 2009 "Employee of the Year."

The 31-year-old computer expert has been a town employee for nearly two years. He was nominated for the honor by a co-worker and won the support of the town's department heads.

"It was an honor to be nominated, but then to actually be chosen was really a surprise," Tommy said. "It's a cool feeling."

A North Carolina resident for the last 16 years, Tommy has spent the last six working with computer technology. Since joining the town's staff, he's been on the go, working with town employees to keep their computers operating properly, as well as helping keep the town's expanding computer services online.

"We recognize the good job that Tommy's done," said Town Manager Steve Biggs. "His easygoing manner and expertise has won him a lot of friends---and respect."

Tommy, whose father Michael is a town Meter Reader, just bought a new guitar and hopes to record classical music someday.

"Away from computers, music and guitar is my passion," he said. He enjoys all sorts of classical music, especially the work of Beethoven and Chopin.

Tommy, who plans to marry in April of next year, also plays a strong game of chess, though he quickly attained a healthy respect for the high level of play across the country when he joined a national chess organization a few years ago. "I thought I was a good player, but got taught differently real quick," he said.

Joining the town's staff was the best move of his professional life, he said, following a series of work experiences that left him feeling unfulfilled.

"Working for the town has changed my outlook, and I truly am grateful to be able to work with such a close-knit and caring group," Tommy said. "I feel really at home here and that I can make a difference."

Last year's honored employee was Property Maintenance Superintendent Steve Blasko.