Every day is like a snowflake; no two are ever the same. That’s the way Chris Cline summed up why his job at the Whitfield County Correctional Center is always interesting. As an example, he pointed to the day in September 2012 when he and three co-workers battled a fire that had started in the laundry room of the jail until the fire department arrived.
“If it weren’t for these officers’ quick response, this fire could have quickly reached the gas system and created a catastrophic event, placing the life and safety of staff and inmates in serious danger,” Capt.
Wes Lynch said in a commendation after the fire.
Mr. Cline serves two roles for the jail – working as a detention officer to intake and process inmates that come into the jail as well as a 287G officer to process foreign-born inmates through the 287G Program.
For his outstanding efforts at the jail, Mr. Cline has been selected as Whitfield County’s Employee of the Month for March. Maria Pack, who nominated him for the award, says Cline goes above and beyond for his co-workers, maintains a positive attitude, and is always available to assist on his scheduled days off.
To let residents know a little more about him, Mr. Cline filled out the following survey:
Name: Chris Cline
Job: 287G / Detention Officer
Time with the county: 10 years
Education: High school diploma, and I am four classes shy of my associate’s degree
My role as a county employee: Intake and process inmates that come into the Whitfield County Jail, as well as process foreign born inmates through the 287G Program
What keeps my job interesting: Every day is like a snowflake; no two are ever the same.
What gives me a sense of accomplishment on the job: Being able to balance both jobs that are assigned to me and to help out my co- workers whenever I can.
The most important thing I’ve done on the job: In September of 2012 myself along with Sgt. Hull, Sgt. Pickett, and Sgt. McMillan were able to battle a fire that had started in the laundry room of the jail until we were relieved by the Fire Department.
Where I grew up: Dalton
Family: Wife Selena, daughter Maddie, and son Austin.
After work, I enjoy: Landscaping.
Community activities: Was once a volunteer firefighter and I provide lawn care services.
Favorite TV show: Walking Dead
Favorite sport: College football
Favorite music: Country and classic rock
Favorite Whitfield County restaurant: Johns Barbecue
Favorite Whitfield County event: Miracle League
Three people (living or dead) I’d invite to dinner: John Wayne, Clint Eastwood, and Mark Richt
I’m most proud of: My kids.
Pet peeve: Tardiness
If I’ve learned one thing in life, it’s: If you want anything in life you need to work hard to get it.
Who has had the most impact on my life: My family
Personal goals I have accomplished or would like to accomplish: Graduated the 287G program, and would like to one day graduate Mandate School.
If I could have been in any profession of my choosing, I would have been a: Utility Man
If I could have two wishes, they would be: More money and good health for me, my family, and friends.
You’d be surprised to learn that I: Have my own business.
Anything else you’d like to say: “Life is a garden, dig it.” – Joe Dirt