The city of Kent named Marta Gonzales, an IT technical support specialist, on Thursday as its 2016 Employee of the Year.

Hired as a temporary employee in August 2006, Gonzalez worked for four city departments before landing her technical support role in the IT department. Gonzalez provides technical and network problem resolutions to city employees including the installation of software applications, verification of proper hardware and software set up, assistance with navigation around application menus and troubleshooting email issues.

Nominated and selected by her peers, Gonzalez is described as a driven problem solver, with a positive, can-do attitude.

IT Director Mike Carrington said Gonzalez sets an amazing example of what it means to serve the public.

“Marta personifies superior customer service in how she works with customers across the city organization,” Carrington said in a city media release. “We’re fortunate she’s part of the city team, and we’re proud she’s been recognized for her hard work and dedication.”

The city’s recognition program honors employees who in the view of their peers, go above and beyond in the areas of performance, attitude, motivation and dedication. Given annually, the Employee of the Year is chosen from more than 600 employees across 10 departments.

Kent is the sixth largest city in state with a population of about 125,000.