Michael Guyer, a training representative at Mission Technologies, served in the U.S. Navy from 1980 to 2000 and joined HII in 2023. Here’s more about Michael in his words.
Navy Experience
“While in the Navy, I served on six different ships, including the aircraft carrier John F. Kennedy and Knox-class frigates, with a CG, DD and LCC thrown in for good measure. I began instructing sailors formally in 1987, and one of my most enriching and fulfilling tours of duty was Instructor Duty at Dam Neck from 1995 to 1998. After retiring from the Navy in 2000, I went to work for a defense contractor. … When HII won the contract in 2023, I was privileged to be the first to move over to HII. Training sailors and Coast Guard personnel is my passion, and it’s what I have a talent for. I feel blessed to able to continue in a job that is so personally and professionally rewarding.”
Work Philosophy
“They say, ‘If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life!’ That is overly optimistic, although I bet it looks great cross-stitched on a pillow. What I will say is that the burdens that come with my line of work, like frequent travel, are much easier to accept when you get so much satisfaction from what you do. I know for a fact that I make a difference. I also do work that changes as technology marches forward, so I’m not necessarily teaching the same things that I taught 15-20 years ago, although they’re related. Most importantly, the folks that I work with seem to have the same enthusiasm for serving our students as I do, and that makes for an infectious and enjoyable workplace.”
Hobbies and Passions
“In my off time, I enjoy shooting and water sports. I have been an NRA-certified pistol instructor since 1992 and have taught the Concealed Handgun Permit course in Virginia since 1996. I have been fishing my whole life but got into fishing from a kayak in 2004. I am now sponsored by a number of companies. I use my teaching ability to hold seminars for those new to kayak fishing to explain the whats and whys of what is particular to kayak angling. I am also passionate about supporting our veterans/first responders though programs like Heroes On The Water. HOW is a non-profit with chapters across the United States and abroad that use kayak angling as therapy for those that have suffered physical and emotional trauma through their service.”
