Seattle is not just known for its coffee and tech giants; there’s a whole world of everyday heroes keeping the city’s engine running. James Johnson, a maintenance laborer for Seattle City Light, typifies this unsung breed. In a recent feature, Johnson shared the details of his multifaceted role within the Generation Operations Division, which he's been a part of since October 2018.
Handling everything from janitorial tasks in the powerhouse to landscaping and weed control, Johnson has also dabbled as an out-of-class Crew Chief and Electrical Helper. Hailing from Concrete, Washington, his journey to being a Jack-of-all-trades at the city's electric utility depended on taking every opportunity, including stints as a truck driver and machine specialist. In Johnson's words, "Trying various jobs gives you a better feel for how things work" – a sentiment revealed during an interview with Seattle City Light.
The man behind the maintenance job also has a life filled with interests and pastimes that paint a picture of the Pacific Northwest's hearty spirit. Johnson, a Skagit Valley College alumnus with a background in criminal justice, may have his family rooted in Montana, but his heart is tethered to the great outdoors wherever his feet may fall. Always ready for action on a rainy day, Johnson finds solace in hunting and fishing.
When it comes to unwinding, his go-to pastime is elk hunting, but that's not all Johnson’s been up to. Recently, he's embarked on travels to various worldwide spots, finding excitement in the newness of every destination. And though his family resides in Montana, which he calls "God's country," Johnson finds companionship in his German Shepherd, Kodiak. Johnson's favorite cinematic adventures are of the '8 Seconds' kind – the story of a rodeo cowboy revealing a grounded approach to life's thrills and spills. He shared about his favorite film during an interview with Seattle City Light.
