Shelly Brooks: The Face of the Waterway

MOBILE, Ala. — Behind every successful lock operation, engineering feat, and environmental stewardship project along the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway (TTWW) is a dedicated administrative team keeping the mission moving forward. At the helm of that effort is Shelly Brooks, a retired annuitant and Support Services Supervisor with 24 years of dedicated service to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Mobile District.

For Brooks, administrative support is far more than paperwork—it is the backbone of the entire TTWW Project and the first impression the public receives.

“I consider the admin team the face of the TTWW Project,” Brooks said. “Our representation demonstrates front desk superstars—knowledgeable and committed team members providing quality support services with a smile.”

Leading from the Front

Knowing that administrative operations are essential to the broader USACE mission, Brooks approaches her supervisory role with a quiet, relentless integrity.

“I take my job seriously,” Brooks explained. “I perform when no one is watching as if the whole world is looking on.”

Rather than managing from the sidelines, Brooks regularly pitches in to help her staff tackle heavy workloads and tight suspenses. By stepping in during high-pressure moments, she ensures her team can maintain their focus on their primary goals while delivering timely, top-tier support.

One person who can attest to Brooks’ leadership in the Tenn-Tom office is Justin Murphree, TTWW Operations Project Manager.

“I think every office has that person who is the “go to” person,” Murphree said. “Shelly is that person for the Tenn-Tom. If you need to know something about a process, just ask Shelly. If she does not know, she will know by the end of the day.”

A Legacy of Excellence and Support

Throughout her 24-year career with the Mobile District and the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway Office, Brooks’ commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed. One of her most unforgettable career milestones occurred on March 11, 2023, when she was awarded the Civilian Service Achievement Medal.

“It was rewarding to know my performance, productivity, and contributions to the TTWW Project were noted and deemed worthy of such an honor,” Brooks said.

She credits much of her professional longevity and success to two key pillars: unwavering support from her family at home, and an exceptional workplace culture at the Tenn-Tom office.

“I have always had the full support of family during my government career, including my years with USACE,” Brooks noted.

At the office, she finds daily motivation in the camaraderie she shares with her peers and the leadership team along the waterway.

“Some of the best managers in USACE are on the TTWW Project,” Brooks said. “I have sincere appreciation for their support and leadership. They are apt to recognize our efforts and make us feel visible and valued. My peers are people I highly value and commit to assist when needed.”

Looking Ahead & Inspiring the Next Generation

When asked what advice she would offer to young professionals considering a future in public service, Brooks points to the vast breadth of opportunities within the Corps.

“USACE is a federal organization offering great civilian career opportunities in a variety of professions with achievable path progressions—in fields like engineering, biology, park rangers, project management, and more,” she said.

Even as a retired annuitant with nearly two and a half decades of service under her belt, Brooks has no plans of slowing down anytime soon. Moving forward, she plans to continue serving alongside her team at the TTWW Office, prioritizing her health, and honing her skills in personal endeavors outside of the workplace.

“Shelly is respected and trusted by the entire team,” Murphree said. “She goes above and beyond to serve her subordinates, peers, and supervisors.”

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