District recognizes Women’s History Month: Corrinn Garza

Photo By Gen. Rajagau Tuan Lante | Retired Master Sgt. Corrinn Garza, poses for a portrait in her official drill sergeant uniform. Garza is a decorated Afghanistan war veteran serving during Operation Enduring Freedom.  

PHOENIX, AZ, UNITED STATES

03.11.2021

Story by Robert DeDeaux 

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, South Pacific Division

PHOENIX (March 11, 2021) — Before the sun rose over Phoenix, retired Master Sgt. Corrinn ‘Corri’ Garza, a mission support assistant with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, walked into the South Pacific Border District’s office building to execute her daily tasks near midtown on March 11.
Garza, a former Army drill sergeant, detailed the importance of Women’s History Month recognition.
“Women in the workplace make an impact in different ways,” began Garza, a 24-year veteran. “Some impacts are subtle, while others are earth shattering.”
Women’s History Month celebrates the contributions women have made to the United States and recognizes the specific achievements women have made over the course of American history in a variety of fields.
“In America, any person can prosper and be successful,” explained the Afghanistan war veteran. “Treatment of each person should be the same, regardless of gender. Performance, results and impact should be the means for recognition, period.”
From the start of her military career, she has described herself as a rule-follower, standard bearer, and a no-nonsense individual.
“Corrinn is someone that people can rely on for support, knowing that she’ll always put in a great effort,” said Operations Officer Maj. Patrick Mahaney. “In her role within the Mission Support Office, she does so much for the other divisions.”
The Mission Support Office is tasked with myriad responsibilities, such as evaluating current administrative processes, data collection and distribution, and budget management.
“Corrinn is in the office well before most other employees,” stated Mahaney. “Having her in the office early shows her dedication to her position and to the rest of the District.”
Although new to the USACE working environment, waking up early, working hard, and ensuring mission success was not new to the former drill sergeant.
“Since I am new to the Corps, first impressions are important,” stated Garza, a Honolulu native. “Being a drill sergeant gave me a solid foundation in observation, finding inefficiencies, understanding others, and confidence. It taught me different ways to communicate, counsel, coach, and mentor.”
Garza is the lead of the District’s events and recreation committee. The committee is made up of District volunteers. The committee plans and executes events, and brings awareness to significant local and national observances.
“If we don’t celebrate or document what has been accomplished, who will?” questioned Garza. “Celebration and recognition of what women can do and achieve is critical. Some of the most meaningful recognition is done with a sincere thank you.”
Garza credits her successful career and strong work ethic to her father, a Navy chief warrant officer, and her hard-working and inspiring mother.
“Corrinn is driven, creative, thoughtful and is a value to the entire Corps team,” listed District Mission Support Officer Susan Smith. “I’m glad she is a part of the District. She is a strong woman that is dedicated to her job and the community. She does great for this organization.”

• Date Taken: 03.11.2021
• Date Posted: 03.19.2021 11:02
• Story ID: 391792
• Location: PHOENIX, AZ, US