Celebrating a Legacy: Rod Hankinson’s Impact on Young Environmental Stewards
A Remarkable Career Comes to an End
Rod Hankinson is set to retire in April after 36 impactful years at the Washington Department of Ecology, where he pioneered initiatives that empowered approximately 2,000 teenagers through the Ecology Youth Corps in Central Washington. Each summer, this program hires young individuals aged 14 to 17 to participate in litter cleanup along highways.
Journey from Education to Environment
Hailing from Moxee, Hankinson graduated with a teaching degree from Central Washington University in 1983. He initially took up roles as a substitute teacher across Moxee and Yakima before briefly working with the Department of Transportation on bridge projects near Bellevue. In 1989, he returned to Yakima just as curbside recycling was making its debut statewide and joined Ecology. Nicknamed ”The Garbage Man,” he engaged students across schools by making recycling relatable through innovative methods like rap performances about waste management. By 1999, he took charge of the regional litter program.
Mentoring Future Generations
Empowering Young Minds
One of Hankinson’s favorite aspects of his role has been witnessing personal growth among young participants. “I’ve probably written around twenty references for my workers this year alone,” he shares enthusiastically. His approach emphasizes teamwork and recognizes each young individual not merely as laborers but as aspiring adults exploring their paths in life.
“They require structure,” Hankinson notes. As they learn responsibilities such as punctuality and hard work—and experience the satisfaction that comes with earning a paycheck—many come away inspired for future jobs.
Personal Resilience Inspires Others
Reflecting on his journey, Trent recalls applying for a position back in ’75 but not being selected despite accolades like being named an honor society member! This rejection served only to fuel his ambition: “I made it my mission over these last two decades leading the Ecology Youth Corps.”
Gratefully acknowledging youthful connections formed over years at parent meetings becomes emotional when those once-participating kids now bring their own children into Hankinson’s program—”It gives me chills thinking about how far we’ve come together.”
Unforgettable Finds Along Highways
Curious Discoveries
Throughout his tenure focused on roadside cleanups, some peculiar items have surfaced along these stretches! One memorable encounter involved discovering a Krugerrand—a South African gold coin—which helped illuminate both its historical value and early-days finds by youthful crew members; compared to today’s prices hitting upwards of $2,000!
Another spooky tale occurred when crews mistakenly thought they encountered human remains while cleaning up at Ellensburg—only for local law enforcement officers later disclosed it was actually bear hands! Moments like these showcase both humorous and startling surprises nature holds alongside roadways.
New Horizons Ahead
As injuries become more frequent reminders that change is necessary; Rod plans an idyllic retirement centered around family experiences filled with camping trips fishing adventures alongside grandchildren aged one and four!
“My wife loves gardening,” reflects Rod. With interests sharpening towards cooking specialties including jams or pickles now finally within reach since growing older—weaving treasured memories offers excitement moving forward starting anew together post-retirement focusing solely on loved ones rather than work routines stretching long ago behind him throughout substantial career commitments addressing environmental concerns tirelessly!
For more details regarding opportunities offered through Ecological programs available via www.ecology.washington.gov or reaching out directly [509-454-7209].
