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"My defining moment was when I joined the Planning
Department and found my niche," Mike said. "I have found
great satisfaction in seeing the projects that I initiated
come to fruition, that will be serving the customers of this
company for decades to come. I would encourage all
engineers to find a job that gives them personal satisfaction
and makes them happy rather than always seeking
whatever the next job might be."
In preparation for his retirement, Mike learned the
company found a fitting replacement.
"When I interviewed for a job in distribution in
Birmingham in 1980, I interviewed with an engineering
supervisor named Bob Waters," Mike said. "Now as
I leave, the person replacing my position is Bob's son,
Philip."
Hawkins said he's worked with at least a dozen children
of former engineering colleagues.
"I know that there are other families within this company
that have had three generations, as well," Mike said. "It's
been a satisfying feeling to know that not only has the
company been good to us, but I feel like we've been good
for the company.
"Doing the business of the company and providing
service to customers is what it's all about at the end of the
day," he said.
By Erin Harney
Maria and Joe Hawkins
Suzanne, Kaitlyn and Mike Hawkins today.
