In a recent government meeting, a veteran engineer shared his extensive career journey, highlighting his transition from military service to community-focused roles. With a background in civil engineering and nearly 12 years in the Navy, he emphasized the leadership and management training he received, particularly during his time with the Seabees, the Navy's construction battalion.
The speaker recounted a significant incident at the Naval War College, where he served as Facilities Manager. He was called to action at 4 a.m. when a fire broke out in the library, a critical resource for the institution. Within nine months, he successfully led efforts to rebuild the library, earning commendation for his swift response and management skills.
After leaving the Navy, he took on a pivotal role in addressing groundwater contamination at Otis Air Force Base, where he was the first employee of the installation restoration program. His responsibilities included negotiating with local communities affected by contamination, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement and transparency in public projects. His efforts in community outreach and collaboration became a model for similar initiatives across the country.
Transitioning to the private sector, he became the Director of Engineering at Horsley Witten Group, where he later served as CEO, significantly growing the company and its revenues. His tenure was marked by a focus on water resource protection and environmental engineering.
In recent years, he has dedicated himself to community service, holding leadership positions on various boards and commissions, including the Sturgis Library and the Barnstable Municipal Airport Commission. His work has involved securing grants for historic preservation and overseeing significant infrastructure projects, such as the airport terminal rebuild.
The speaker's narrative underscores a commitment to public service and community involvement, reflecting a career that bridges engineering expertise with civic responsibility.