In an era when many Americans have multiple career arcs, let alone occupations, George Walker has called the City of Williamsburg “work” for more than four decades.
Walker retired Friday, exactly 41 years after his start date on Nov. 1, 1972.
Graduating from James Blair High School in 1972, Walker was presented with a choice: Join the Army or go to work for the city.
“From day one that I started working here, I have no regrets,” he said.
As street superintendent in the Public Works and Utilities Department, he oversees the cemetery, signage, concrete and asphalt work and snow removal.
Walker said Williamsburg used to get more snow in the 1970s and 80s, but the weather is not the only thing about the town that has changed since then.
The work that was once done by simple tools and sheer manpower is accomplished by machines. The machines that ran by motors are now powered by hydraulics. Looking at the window of the City of Williamsburg offices, Walker points to large buildings where there once were only houses.
As Williamsburg has grown and gained neighborhoods, the maintenance department has expanded.
The changes don’t bother Walker too much, though. He describes himself as a “go with the flow” kind of person.
Humble and soft spoken, Walker said the biggest surprise in the 41 years came when he was chosen as street superintendent.
“I always thought I’d leave before my boss,” he said. But when the position came open about eight years ago, Walker said he felt he was qualified and knew the team well enough to lead it.
He was selected for the job and supervised eight other employees by the time of his retirement. Together, he says there’s not much they can’t fix.
Walker enjoyed meeting many residents over the course of his career, as he talked with the public and smoothed out issues across the city.
Dan Clayton, director of Public Works and Utilities, said he could not give enough praise to Walker. Clayton has been with the department since 1975, and has watched Walker work his way up the ladder.
“He’s the most reliable employee that I have had the pleasure of dealing with,” Clayton said.
The city held a reception to celebrate Walker’s retirement Friday. Walker was touched to see some employees who had retired before him had come back to pay tribute to his service.
With retirement, he is looking forward to devoting more time to the charity Buffalo Boyz Bikers, a motorcycle group that builds handicapped ramps and assists the needy.
Leaving the city after so long, Walker said he feels fortunate.
“I just loved what I was doing,” Walker said.
