May 17–23 is National Public Works Week, a time to recognize and celebrate the people who keep our community running. Each day this week, we share the story of an employee from General Services Administration. Their work often happens behind the scenes, but it’s essential, from fleet operations to building maintenance. These are the individuals who make sure everything runs smoothly, supporting the services our community depends on every day.
If you’ve driven down a Wake County road, you’ve likely passed a County vehicle without a second thought. But behind the scenes, someone is making sure it’s ready when it matters most, and often, that person is Clifton McCabe.
Clifton came to Wake County in 2001. He was looking for stable work, good benefits and a place where he could stay long term. He found it. More than 20 years later, he’s still here, working as an automotive specialist and team leader.
“Working on vehicles has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember,” he said.
Before joining the County, he spent years at Firestone. By the time he made the switch to public service, he already had a strong foundation.
His job today covers a lot of ground. He checks in vehicles, assigns work to mechanics, keeps the workflow moving and handles things like invoices and warranties. It’s part technical, part administrative, and people don’t always know how to categorize him.
“Sometimes people don’t know if my role is administrative or technical,” he said. The answer is both.
But what he enjoys most isn’t the day-to-day operations. It’s the people.
“I enjoy helping teach the next generation of technicians and showing them what a great opportunity it is to work for a strong organization like Wake County.”
Outside of work, he loves being around kids and making them laugh, something most coworkers wouldn’t guess about him. And at home, his motivation is clear.
“My family inspires me. I work hard to build a better life and future for my kids.”
After hours, he’s been building a lawn care business he plans to carry into retirement.
More than 25 years in, Clifton is still doing what he came to do: keeping things running, supporting the people around him and helping Wake County move forward.
