From Coast Guard to Career: Hayden’s Millwright Journey at PWSC
by V. Heisser |
Hayden Packer discovered the OEC in Millwright program at Prince William Sound College through a fellow Coast Guard member, and signed up the very next day. Now in his second semester, he says the experience has been even more rewarding than expected, offering hands-on learning and clear career pathways.
Born in Jamaica, raised in the Cayman Islands, educated in England, and later serving in the U.S. Coast Guard, Hayden worked in both the deck and engineering departments, where he developed a strong passion for mechanics. After leaving the military last June, he set his sights on building a stable, meaningful civilian career.
Throughout the program, Hayden has balanced coursework with major life milestones. His wife—who is from Valdez—recently gave birth to their first child, a daughter named Halloway, born on January 2, 2026. While navigating new parenthood, Hayden has remained focused on creating a better future for his growing family.
Thanks to the Millwright program’s strong industry connections and job placement support, Hayden has already secured a competitive summer internship with Hilcorp. He credits instructor Spencer Heston for ongoing mentorship, networking opportunities, and professional preparation through resume development and mock interviews.
Outside of class, Hayden enjoys snowboarding and hiking—activities he and his wife love sharing as they build their life together in Alaska.
Hayden’s advice for prospective students:
“It’s only a year long—do it. It’s after work hours, and you will not regret it. You’ll meet so many people and get so many things done that you never would have done. And the connections that Spencer hooks up for you are like nothing else, and it’s really worth it.”
We’re proud to support students like Hayden who are building careers, supporting families, and stepping confidently into Alaska’s workforce.