Prior to coming to work for Washington State Ferries (WSF) in 1989, Harold Hix was a Marine Engineer in the U.S. Army. In 1988, after more than 21 years of service, Harold retired as a Warrant Officer from the Army.
When it comes to teamwork and public service, Harold sees similarities between the Army and WSF.
“Both organizations have to function as teams,” Harold says. “Individuals cannot do the jobs that are required. It really requires a strong team effort to accomplish the work.
“If you boil right down to it, they’re both (WSF and the Army) service organizations. Whereas, the military is service to the nation, WSF is a service for the traveling public here in Washington State. We have a tremendous responsibility to our traveling public.”
Harold began his career at WSF as the Maintenance Systems Manager at the Eagle Harbor Maintenance Facility on Bainbridge Island. From there Harold took a job as the Shipyard Superintendent before becoming the Manager at Eagle Harbor. Harold spent nearly 13 years working at Eagle Harbor before taking his current position at WSF.
“Eagle Harbor is absolutely the heart and soul of keeping things going. They are our emergency response team, they’re the men and women who jump up in the middle of the night, on a holiday, and in bad weather and keep this organization functioning. The terminal people and the vessel people play a big part in that too. It’s that type of ability that makes this organization unique from others.”
Since 2001, Harold has worked in WSF’s home office in downtown Seattle as the Project Engineer and Administrator for the Maintenance Productivity Enhancement Tool (MPET). MPET is a computerized maintenance management system for WSF’s terminals and vessels. He began working with MPET in 1997. During that time he has seen the program’s uses expand to meet the ever changing needs of WSF.
“We have made quite a few additions and enhancements to the program over the years.” he said. “Every department uses at least part of that program now,” he said.
Harold is proud of his accomplishments, but quick to credit his co-workers for making his career at WSF special.
“It has been just a privilege to work with such talented and professional individuals. They are the core to our operation.” He said. “I’ve learned so much from my co-workers in my everyday job.”
“I do my job but it’s not individual. We do it together, the fleet, the terminals; it’s the entire organization, WSF as a whole.”
Hix has three grown children, two step children and seven grandchildren. He enjoys camping with his wife and is actively involved with his church. Harold owns property at Lake Cushman and enjoys going there to get away from the cell phones for some rest and relaxation.
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