Hank Stewart ’92

Major at MMA: Marine Engineering Technology
Extracurricular involvement while at MMA: Alpha Phi Omega, Band, Castine Fire Department, Rifle and Pistol Team
Employer: Maine Maritime Academy

Where has your career taken you since graduation?

I served on active duty in the US Navy for just over 22 years as a deck and engine watch officer in several ships operating all over the world, and as Chief Engineer of two destroyers.  I was fortunate to live with my family in England while on exchange with the Royal Navy.  I also served with the US Army in Afghanistan. I retired from MMA’s NROTC Unit and have been teaching at MMA since then.

What is your current title and what are your responsibilities?

Assistant Professor of Engineering.  I teach classes on campus and underway on the summer training cruises.

What piece of advice would you give to a student going into your field?

Accept that technology rapidly evolves, and commit to becoming an effective lifelong learner.  Start to build a professional reputation for excellence: work hard, always be early, communicate effectively, and strive to achieve.

How did the MMA experience prepare you for both your prior positions and your current career focus?

MMA prepared me very well for service as a seagoing officer. Tracing systems and learning how to operate and maintain equipment had become second nature by graduation. Later, I realized I had also learned much about professionalism, the value of a strong work ethic, and how to learn and solve problems. This prepared me well for graduate studies and the leadership challenges of serving as a military officer afloat and ashore.

What are your goals for the future?

I strive to help ensure MMA’s students are prepared to excel in their chosen fields.