Celebrating Mike Heck: 42 Years of Dedication at MECO
As the year draws to a close, we prepare to say farewell to one of MECO’s most dedicated and influential team members. Mike Heck, who has been with MECO for an extraordinary 42 years, will retire on December 20th. His incredible journey with the company is a testament to his skill, commitment, and passion for excellence.
Starting at MECO: Early Career in Panama City
Mike began his career with MECO in 1982 at our Panama City location, working on seawater desalination units in the Maintenance and Programming Department. As a new employee, he quickly demonstrated his expertise, particularly in troubleshooting and innovation. Recognizing his potential, Mike was soon moved into the production department, where he oversaw the development of critical military equipment, including the MECO ARMY ROWPU and the ARMY 125 GPM water transfer pumps. These projects not only showcased Mike’s technical skill but also his ability to manage complex production processes, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and invaluable member of the MECO team.
Moving back to New Orleans.
Mike was soon tasked with overseeing the ARMY Diesel Fuel Transfer Pump. Working alongside colleagues like Chet Nunez and Yanping Hou, Mike ensured the pump design underwent rigorous field testing before it was accepted by the ARMY for production. Once the pump was ready, Mike shifted his focus to new challenges, including collaborating with his father, James Heck, on the development of a water-bearing compressor. Though this project was not completed, it reflected the innovative spirit and family legacy that Mike brought to his work. Following these initiatives, Mike transitioned into the Testing Department, where he learned the intricacies of MECO’s M3C and Flash seawater desalination units, further broadening his expertise.
A Life on the Road: Service Department Adventures
After a few years, Mike transitioned into the service department, where he traveled extensively to work on naval desalination units. His time in service not only honed his technical skills but also gave him a collection of incredible stories from his travels and work with the U.S. Navy. From troubleshooting complex systems aboard ships to working under tight deadlines in challenging environments, Mike’s experiences in this role were as demanding as they were rewarding. He often shared stories of his time on the road, recounting both the technical challenges he overcame and the personal connections he built along the way.
Shaping MECO’s Future: Head of Maintenance and Resilience During Hurricane Katrina
Following his remarkable tenure in the service field, Mike took on the role of Head of Maintenance at MECO. In this role, he played a pivotal part in shaping the company’s operations and facilities. He oversaw the closure of multiple locations, including the Panama City plant, France Road plant, Poydras Street office, Sugarland plant, Stafford office, and Goodbee plant. Each closure presented unique challenges, but Mike approached them with a strategic mindset, ensuring smooth transitions while maintaining operational efficiency.
During Hurricane Katrina, Mike was instrumental in reviewing the damages to the France Road facility. He led efforts to remove and deliver valuable assets from the facility to Houston, where MECO temporarily relocated to fulfill its commitments to the U.S. Army. Mike played a crucial role in scouting the Houston facility, ensuring it was viable for MECO’s operations during this challenging time. Despite the upheaval, Mike and his family remained in Louisiana while he traveled weekly to Houston to oversee maintenance and operations.
When the decision was made to move MECO back to Louisiana, Mike was vital in selecting the Goodbee location and preparing it for operations. Later, when MECO decided to permanently relocate to Mandeville and build a new facility, Mike was chosen as the lead to design the new facility and ensure it was constructed to exact specifications. His leadership during this period of transition and recovery was exemplary, showcasing his unwavering dedication to MECO and its future.
Designing Excellence: The Mandeville Facility
Mike’s most significant contribution as Head of Maintenance was his instrumental role in the design and construction of our state-of-the-art facility in Mandeville. From initial planning to final execution, Mike’s keen eye for detail and forward-thinking approach ensured that the Mandeville plant would not only meet the needs of today but also support the company’s growth for decades to come. The efficiency and attention to detail of the Mandeville plant are a direct result of Mike’s vision and meticulous planning. It stands as a lasting testament to his foresight and dedication to MECO’s success.
Generations of Commitment
Mike’s connection to MECO runs even deeper—his father, James Heck, also worked for the company in compressor design and engineering, inspiring Mike to begin his career here.
Today, both Mike’s stepson and grandson work for MECO. Mike’s stepson, Sid Miles, is a senior lead in MECO’s machining department specializing in compressors and has worked for the company for 23 years. Troy Simmons, Mike’s grandson, has worked for MECO as a field service tech for 4 years.
This family legacy, combined with Mike’s unwavering commitment, has made a lasting mark on MECO’s history. It’s rare to find someone who so fully embodies the values and mission of a company, but Mike has done so with humility and grace throughout his 42 years.
Mentorship and Leadership
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mike has been a mentor and role model to countless colleagues. His approachable demeanor and willingness to share his knowledge have created a ripple effect, shaping the careers of many within MECO. His influence extends far beyond the physical facilities he helped build; it’s evident in the culture of teamwork, innovation, and excellence that he has fostered.
A Lasting Legacy
As we reflect on Mike’s remarkable career, we celebrate not only his professional achievements but also his lasting impact on MECO’s culture and future. His keen eye, attention to detail, and dedication to excellence have left an enduring legacy that will benefit MECO for years to come.
“Mike’s dedication and foresight have been instrumental in shaping MECO’s success and future,” said Greg Queen, President of MECO. “He leaves behind a legacy of excellence and professionalism that will guide us in the future.”
Please join us in thanking Mike Heck for his 42 years of extraordinary service and wishing him all the best in his retirement. Mike, your contributions to MECO have been immeasurable, and you will be greatly missed. Your legacy will continue to inspire us as we carry forward the values you exemplified every day.