Marty Rahn, program analyst for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Savannah District’s Civil Works Programs and Project Control Branch, is retiring after 40 years of dedicated service. Affectionately known to his colleagues as “The Goat,” Rahn’s retirement symbolizes both the end of an era and the recognition of an extraordinary career.

Rahn’s career with the Corps began in 1981 as a GS-1 accounting clerk in the Resource Management Division. Although he faced significant personal challenges due to his cerebral palsy, a condition resulting from a traumatic birth that left him confined to a wheelchair, Rahn’s career is a testament to his remarkable resilience and tireless work ethic.

“My parents were told at birth that I would never lead a normal life and that I would be a burden to them and society,” said Rahn. “Those words shaped my philosophy of life and work ethic. I wanted to prove that I could make a meaningful contribution despite my disability.”

Rahn’s parents worked tirelessly to give him a normal life and instilled in him the belief that he should never let the assumptions of others determine his potential.

“I didn’t want to be treated differently because of my disability,” Rahn said. “I felt like I had to constantly prove myself, but that drove me to get better every day.”

Rahn’s pursuit of excellence and determination to overcome daily challenges earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues.
“Marty’s career is an example of resilience, determination and a remarkable work ethic,” said Christel Brandon, director of civil engineering program management, Project Control and Program Management Branch and Rahn’s supervisor.

After working on military and civilian projects in the District’s Resource Management Division for 10 years, Rahn relocated with his now wife, Ujjvala. He returned to the Corps in 1994 as a payroll clerk, then moved through various positions in the Executive Office and Public Affairs Division, and finally joined the Civil Construction Program Management Division of the Planning, Programs and Project Management Division as a program analyst in 2000.

Embracing change and innovation

During Rahn’s four-decade tenure in the Savannah District, significant technological changes occurred, from the evolution of manual accounting processes to advanced automation systems.

“When I joined the Corps, we were working with dummy terminals and manual processes. Now everything is automated,” Rahn said. “You either adapt to the changes or you get left behind.”

Rahn’s adaptability has been a cornerstone of his success. Despite the limitations of his cerebral palsy, which affects his typing speed, his quick problem-solving skills have never waned.

“My mind thinks faster than I can write,” Rahn said. “Initially, manual tasks took longer, but my colleagues were patient and helpful. As technology improved, I was able to keep up better and perform at my best.”

Commitment to leadership and teamwork

Rahn’s impact goes far beyond his technical expertise. His willingness to take on new challenges and his leadership skills have had a lasting impact on the organization.

“I was there when we implemented CEFMS, P2 and other new systems,” Rahn said. “My willingness to lead the transition of these new systems is something I am particularly proud of.”

Rahn served as a payroll clerk, reviewed time cards, and trained employees on the Corps of Engineers Financial Management System (CEFMS). In 2004, he joined the Project Management Information System (P2) Project Delivery Team and became a subject matter expert on the project scheduling software that is still used today.

“Marty views the team, the district and the organization as an extension of his family and therefore has a multifaceted influence,” said Brandon. “He builds a personal connection with each team member and readily shares his knowledge and expertise.”

Brandon said Rahn has trained countless employees in best P2 practices and is regularly asked for help with troubleshooting.

“I have a natural ability to solve problems and I love it when people come to me and ask for help,” Rahn said. “Because I have so much systems knowledge, I can solve a lot of problems quickly, and I think that’s what I’ll miss most about my job.”

A grateful farewell

As Rahn nears retirement, his colleagues are deeply grateful for his contributions.

Cynthia Powers, director of resource management, first met Rahn in 1988 when she began her career with the Corps, and the two have been close friends ever since.

“Marty has a remarkable ability to make friends effortlessly,” says Powers. “His humor is unparalleled and his outgoing nature is infectious. You could always hear him in the office, whether he was laughing, yelling or coaching others.”

Powers also highlights Rahn’s extraordinary ambition throughout his career.
“No challenge was too big for him. He tackled every task head on and succeeded, which is why he rose from a GS1 to a GS12,” Powers said. “I always admired his courage and strength, both in good times and bad. I and many others in the district will miss him greatly, but we will never forget him.”

When Rahn looks back on his career, he emphasizes the importance of community and support.

“From the moment I joined the Savannah District, I was welcomed like a family member,” Rahn recalls. “That feeling of acceptance and support was critical to my success.”

Rahn is looking forward to retirement and is excited about the new adventures and opportunities that await him.

“The Federal Service has shown that good people can come together to achieve great things,” said Rahn. “It has also underscored the importance of community and support in achieving one’s goals.”

Rahn will officially retire on August 31, 2024.