Title: Investigator
Company: County of Fairfax, Virginia
Location: Fairfax, Virginia, United States
Rebecca Parsons, investigator at County of Fairfax, Virginia, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Educators for dedication, achievements and leadership in government service.
Ms. Parsons has found success as a notable career in public service and code enforcement, marked by nearly 20 years of dedicated work with the County of Fairfax, Virginia. Since 2016, she has excelled as a level-three investigator, where her responsibilities include enforcing Virginia’s property maintenance code and the statewide fire prevention code. In this capacity, Ms. Parsons is tasked with ensuring lifesaving compliance for residents, educating the public about safety hazards in their homes and guiding individuals toward meeting regulatory standards. Her role also involves taking non-compliant cases to court, reflecting her commitment to upholding community safety.
Ms. Parsons’ tenure with the County of Fairfax began in 2006 as an investigator. Over the years, Ms. Parsons has demonstrated professional growth by advancing through various stages within the department. She found further success on a specialized strike team that addressed multiple occupancy complaints, collaborating with colleagues to resolve complex housing situations. Her expertise was further recognized when she completed training at the Fire Marshal Academy—a milestone she considers to be her most notable achievement. This intensive program enhanced her analytical and communication skills and provided her with a new perspective on enforcement practices.
In addition to her primary responsibiilities, Ms. Parsons serves as an S1 officer of the court within the State Fire Marshal’s Office under the Virginia Department of Fire Programs. In this role, she is responsible for enforcing fire regulations and representing cases in court proceedings, underscoring her authority and expertise in fire safety compliance.
Ms. Parsons also contributed to academia as an adjunct professor in criminal justice at Gibbs College from 2006 to 2007. Balancing full-time employment and graduate studies during this period, she demonstrated resilience and dedication to both her professional development and educational pursuits.
Prior to her tenure in Fairfax County, Ms. Parsons worked as a professional services administrator at FishNet Security, now known as Optiv Security Inc., from 2005 to 2006, where she managed administrative functions supporting security operations. From 2003 to 2005, she held a zoning enforcement position with Loudoun County, Virginia, gaining valuable experience in regulatory compliance and municipal governance. Her early career included operating as a day support specialist for Loudoun County from 2001 to 2003, where she provided essential support services within the community.
Throughout her career, Ms. Parsons has been actively involved with several industry-related organizations. She is affiliated with the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, the Virginia Fire Services Board under the Virginia Department of Fire Programs and the State Board of Housing and Community Development. These significant associations reflect her ongoing commitment to advancing best practices in code enforcement and public safety.
Ms. Parson’s academic background has been instrumental in shaping her professional journey. Ms. Parsons earned a Master of Science in criminal justice from the University of Cincinnati in 2008, where she was inducted into Alpha Phi Sigma and Omicron Delta Kappa honor societies—recognitions that underscore her academic excellence and leadership potential. She previously obtained an associate degree in general studies from Mountain Empire Community College in 1998 and a Bachelor of Science in administration of justice from The University of Virginia’s College at Wise in 2000.
Ms. Parsons has also pursued specialized certifications that have enhanced her qualifications within her field. She garnered Fire Inspector I and II certifications in 2016, equipping her with advanced knowledge for fire safety inspections and regulatory enforcement. Additionally, she acquired a certificate in paralegal studies from George Mason University in 2004, broadening her understanding of legal processes relevant to her investigative work.
Faith has played a central role in Ms. Parsons’ life and career. She credits her spiritual beliefs for helping her overcome challenges and frustrations throughout her journey, providing resilience during demanding periods as she balanced professional responsibilities with personal commitments—including raising her daughter while pursuing higher education. Beyond her primary efforts, Ms. Parsons is civically engaged as a supporter of local animal shelters, reflecting her compassion for animal welfare and community involvement.
In her personal time, Ms. Parsons enjoys landscaping, spending time outdoors around bonfires or engaging in nature activities and caring for her three cats and Great Dane. Looking toward the future, she aspires to retire from public service and transition into consulting by starting her own business. She is also interested in volunteering more extensively, traveling internationally and participating in mission trips—continuing a longstanding commitment to supporting others through sponsorships and charitable endeavors. Ms. Parsons’ career reflects unwavering dedication to public safety, education and community service—qualities that have defined her professional legacy and continue to inspire those around her.
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