Feature Story

SEATTLE - Joyce Gilliam, administrative assistant for 13th Coast Guard District Prevention & Waterways Branch, pauses from her busy workday for an environmental portrait. In celebration of Administrative Professionals Week, 13th District is celebrating Gilliam's 43 plus years of service. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Nathan Bradshaw

SEATTLE - Joyce Gilliam, administrative assistant for 13th Coast Guard District Prevention & Waterways Branch, checks her e-mail at her desk. Gilliam, a D13 employee for more than 43 consecutive years, can remember when only one computer was utilized for the entire district. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Nathan Bradshaw

Celebrating more than 43 years of service

It is not uncommon to encounter individuals in the workplace who embrace their jobs with enthusiasm. The success of any work environment depends largely on the attitudes of the individuals who operate within it. Without hardworking folks who care about their jobs, our quality of life simply would not exist.

Every now and again, however, we come across a rare individual in the workplace who demonstrates a loyalty to their employer and passion for their job that far exceed the standard.

Meet Joyce Gilliam, administrative assistant for 13^th Coast Guard District Prevention & Waterways Branch, and a truly rare example of dedication and adaptability. Humble, professional and consistent, she has worked in the district for more than 43 consecutive years.

A Seattleite since birth, Gilliam graduated from Pacific High School and then Aurswald Business School, both located in Seattle. On July 13, 1967, Gilliam began her career at the 13^th District as a clerk typist for the Aids to Navigation Branch.

Through more than four decades of change, Gilliam’s efforts have remained constant. Her ability and willingness to adapt have led to her success. These changes have ranged from advances in technology to the ebb and flow of Guardians who have worked around her.

“I began my career using an RC Allen manual typewriter. After that came a Smith-Corona electric typewriter. Then came the IBM Selectric 3, which was in my opinion the best typewriter. I was sorry to see it go,” she said.

Gilliam can remember the days when only one computer was utilized for the entire District. Now her job revolves largely around her familiarity with the one at her desk.

Technology isn’t the only thing Gilliam has adapted to over the decades.  With personnel transfers each spring, Gilliam has had to adjust to hundreds Coast Guard men and women entering and exiting her work environment.

“You miss people, but you make new friends,” said Gilliam. “If I have to work with someone who isn’t my favorite for a few years, I don’t let it bother me,” she joked. I know they’ll be headed someplace else before too long.”

Meanwhile, Gilliam has remained where she is; a rock in a sea of change.

She likes the Coast Guard, her job and where she lives.

“I like the honor and prestige that comes with working for the Coast Guard. It gives me a feeling of importance. That’s why I’ve stayed for so long, because I like it so much. I keep saying I will retire in another five years. Then another five go by and I decide I’m not ready for retirement. I guess you can say I love my job.”

"Joyce is a great asset to the office. She’s like our historian,” boasted Cmdr. Daryl Peloquin, Gilliam’s supervisor. “I’m always asking her questions to tap into her corporate knowledge. She has a great attitude and work ethic. She is incredibly reliable."

Love for her job is not the only reason behind Gilliam’s 43 plus years in the district. She loves the city of Seattle.

“I love the waterfront, fisherman’s wharf, the seafood, the familiarity of it all. Seattle is my home.”

Gilliam, who lives with her sister and great-niece, even enjoys a day at home now and again.

“The best part about having the day off is not having to get up early,” she said. “When I finally do decide to retire, I suppose I will sleep later, do some traveling, and try to keep busy. I will miss work!”

The entire staff at the 13^th District appreciates Gilliam’s loyalty to the Coast Guard and passion for her job. When she is ready to go, the 13^th District will miss her.