Her Story
About Tracey
Tracey Haire Abshier is a correctional officer with the Missouri Eastern Correctional Center in St. Louis, Missouri, where she is responsible for maintaining the safety, security, and daily operations of a correctional housing unit. In her role, Tracey conducts cell and common-area searches, performs inmate counts and wing checks, escorts inmates using mechanical restraints, oversees controlled prisoner movement, monitors outdoor activities, maintains detailed chronological logs for legal documentation, and responds to medical emergencies. Her attention to detail and commitment to institutional safety have earned her recognition, including a commendation for discovering a weapon during a routine cell search.
In addition to her work in corrections, Tracey has built a diverse professional background spanning entertainment production, architecture, and customer service. Since 2017, she has worked as a stagehand with IATSE Local 6 Stagehands, helping assemble and dismantle stages, lighting, audio systems, video walls, cameras, and other production equipment for live events. She also worked as a self-employed architectural designer, preparing detailed architectural drawings and collaborating with clients to develop functional design solutions. Before transitioning into these fields, Tracey spent more than two decades in customer service, where she developed the communication, adaptability, and problem-solving skills that continue to serve her well.
Tracey earned an Associate's degree in Architecture from St. Louis Community College, where she specialized in architectural drawings and customer experience, and later completed a medical assisting program in Tampa, Florida. Her unique combination of experience in corrections, live event production, architectural design, healthcare training, and customer service demonstrates her versatility and dedication to continuous growth. She brings professionalism, resilience, and a strong work ethic to every role she undertakes, making a meaningful contribution in each field she serves.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Tracey
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, dedication, and a strong attention to detail. I spent 20 years in customer service, where I developed valuable communication and problem-solving skills before transitioning into a role where I could make a greater impact. One of my proudest achievements was discovering weapons hidden in a jail cell, helping prevent potential harm to both staff and inmates. That experience reinforced the importance of vigilance, responsibility, and using my skills to make a meaningful difference.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that you can work hard and truly make a difference in the lives of others. That advice has stayed with me throughout my career, reminding me that dedication, compassion, and a strong work ethic not only lead to personal success but also create a positive impact on the people I serve every day.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering law enforcement is to work hard, believe in yourself, and never lose sight of your purpose. This career offers opportunities to grow while making a real difference by helping save lives and keeping others safe.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in my field is continued career growth. Having been in my current role for a year, I’m focused on expanding my skills, taking on new responsibilities, and pursuing opportunities for advancement while continuing to make a positive impact.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me are making a positive difference in the lives of others and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Outside of work, I enjoy cooking out, spending time outdoors, and visiting casinos with family and friends.
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