April 22. Two employees of Cabarrus County’s Planning and Development department received statewide recognition as leaders in their respective fields.

The North Carolina Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts named Daniel McClellan its Outstanding Technical District Employee of the Year. The NC Ellis Cannady Chapter of the International Association of Electrical Inspectors recognized Michael Caudle as Electrical Inspector of the Year. Both employees also received recognition by the Cabarrus County Board of Commissioners.

McClellan began working for Cabarrus in 2001 as the county’s resource conservation specialist. He administers the NC Department of Agriculture Cost Share Program locally, which provides technical and financial resources to help address water quality and quantity. He also works with landowners to manage land sustainability.

McClellan spent his early life on the family farm, which inspired him to pursue a career in soil and water conservation. He most enjoys working with and learning from our local farmers.

“I saw the importance of managing natural resources for future generations,” he said. “Even the small things we do to help farmers can have a big effect on our environment.”

McClellan serves on the board of directors of the NC Conservation District Employees Association and its professional development program. He earned a degree in environmental studies from UNC Wilmington in 2000.

Caudle began working for Cabarrus in 1994, serving as an electrical inspector and then lead electrical inspector prior to his current role as codes facilitator and plans examiner.

Caudle supervises electrical field inspectors, reviews commercial plans, and helps developers and owners navigate the planning and construction process. He enjoys the challenge of coming up with viable and safe solutions to code issues.

“I enjoy working with people, solving problems and making sure the public is safe,” Caudle said. “Many lives depend on inspectors doing our job well and thoroughly.”

Just last year, Caudle completed nearly 4,000 inspections of Cabarrus County homes and businesses. He credits his success to his team, managers and county executive leadership.

“I work with a great group of people. I learn new things every day and hope to continue to learn for the rest of my life,” he said.

Caudle serves as the current president of the International Association of Electrical Inspectors.