FRED BARKALOW


Delaware County Employee of the Month
January 2007

Fred Barkalow started working for Delaware County as part of DPW’s summer crews while he was in high school and during college. In 1982, he started his career with OET as a summer crew leader and now serves as Program Supervisor.

As a Program Supervisor, Fred’s primary responsibilities are twofold: to help people find good jobs; and to help businesses find a qualified workforce. He helps people conduct skill and knowledge assessments to determine where they will be most successful. He also investigates education and training opportunities to better prepare them to enter the workforce. This is especially important to people who face career changes due to circumstances beyond their control. Using their criteria, Fred helps businesses screen applicants for those that best meet the company’s needs. He also helps businesses and job seekers by arranging on-the-job training opportunities for potential employees, as well as other employee training. Fred is very effective in helping youth prepare to enter the workforce and/or encourage them to continue their educations.

When asked what he likes most about his job, Fred said, "I enjoy working with the public and helping people better their lives."

Teddie Storey, Director of Employment and Training, states Fred has a great attitude about his job and a very good relationship with his co-workers in Delaware County as well as with his colleagues in Chenango and Otsego Counties. He is receptive to learning from others and willing to share his own ideas about how we can best serve our clients. His relationship with clients of all ages is encouraging, optimistic, and never judgmental.

Fred resides in Delhi with his wife Pamela of 21 ½ years. They have two children: Matthew, 19 attending Paul Smiths College, and Laura, 16 attending Delaware Academy. When not working Fred enjoys coaching football, basketball and baseball at Delaware Academy. He is an avid outdoorsman who likes hunting and fly fishing.