This Is My HII: Meet Ben Denmark
Ben Denmark, a program manager in Mission Technologies’ Unmanned Systems business group, started with HII as an intern 11 years ago. In this “This is My HII” feature, he reflects on his career path and the passions he has outside of work.
Starting from the Ground Up
“I started with Hydroid as a manufacturing intern after graduating from college with a degree in industrial engineering. My job was essentially on-call support anywhere and everywhere in manufacturing—an extra set of hands wherever needed as the company was in a period of growth. … That summer, I was involved in every aspect of the manufacturing workflow. I helped with testing incoming circuit boards, acquiring and outfitting new work benches for technicians, building small assemblies, and went on the boat as a deck hand to assist with sea testing REMUS vehicles. It was a great way to learn the entire value stream of the product realization process firsthand.
“My various experiences with the different teams I worked with was a big part of my decision to stay and apply for a full-time role. The common thread was the camaraderie and the buy-in to the mission. It was a great feeling to be part of a group of people focused on a common goal: to deliver the best UUVs on the market. Plus, I grew up on Cape Cod. Being able to stay close to family, working for a company that made an interesting product, it was a win-win.
“You can’t know everything on day one. It takes time to build knowledge. Never stop learning.”
Evolving Roles and Responsibilities
“The only constant has been change. In my time with the company, I’ve had several different roles—first as a quality engineer. … As my experience and responsibilities within the QA team grew, my role changed, culminating into a position as a continuous improvement manager, before getting my PMP and making the jump to programs—first as a project and now program manager.
“Being around for the startup of product lines like the NGR and R300 has been very cool to witness and be a part of. I’ve been able to work with very talented people that all brought their own personalities and perspectives.
“Transitioning from one department to another in an entirely different role took time to get used to, but like anything it takes time to observe, acclimate and adjust to get comfortable in a new setting.
“Rely on the subject matter expertise that all members of the team bring. To borrow an expression from legendary football coach Bill Belichick: ‘Do your job.’ The best results come when people are provided an environment to focus only on what they do best.
“I’m drawn to the operations and management side of the business and am continuing to grow in that direction. I enjoy learning and understanding how things work and contributing to making them operate more efficiently. “
Passions Outside of Work
What’s the most interesting or unexpected skill you’ve acquired outside of work?
“I was given a pizza oven as a gift a few years ago, and I’ve become pretty good at being a homemade pizza chef. It took some trial and error to get the system figured out, but I have it almost down to a science to get quality results now. We have pizza nights regularly with family and friends. It’s a lot of work but always worth it.”
Favorite show to binge or current book you’re reading?
“Possibly an overplayed answer, but I love ‘The Office.’ I’ll keep it on any time it’s on TV.”
Outside of work, what can we catch you doing?
“Outside of work, I’m an avid golfer and like to go to the beach.”
Pictured: Ben Denmark outside of the HII Unmanned Systems facility in Pocasset, MA.
“This is My HII” campaign showcases our employees’ unique stories in their own words. Through personal narratives, we celebrate our workforce while providing insight into HII’s culture and values.
