NDCS Team Member Spotlight: After celebrating his 26th year working at the Diagnostic and Evaluation Center (DEC), Sergeant Jairo Cabieles looks back on his time at the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services with pride. He’s worked all three shifts during different points in his career. Cabieles began as an officer, promoted to corporal and then sergeant in 2006. He said he enjoys talking to team members and helping train new teammates. “I enjoy training and developing new people who come work at DEC.”

Lietenant Witherspoon works with Cabieles as his supervisor. He said he appreciates Cabieles focus on his teammates. “He handles the majority of our staffing assignments for first shifters staying for second shift or filling future vacancies for first shift. Sgt. Cabieles handles these situations with team members gracefully and with respect. Our teammates do appreciate his willingness to work with them in finding workable solutions for all parties.”

Cabieles noted he feels helpful when he can answer questions for the incarcerated population during their time at DEC. He also believes in order to be a good leader, communication is key. “I try to talk with as many teammates as time allows throughout the course of the work day. I try to offer opportunities to have more personal conversations without being intrusive, and make sure team members know they can come to me if they have any questions or concerns that come up.”

Cabieles remembers serving as an interpreter for several years until the Interpreter and Translator division at the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services was established. In order to succeed in corrections, Cabieles gives some good reminders. “It’s always good to have an outlet or a hobby to enjoy during your time away from work. I would also say, make sure you have a good support system whether that’s family or friends. This will give you someone to talk to and decompress.”