Take this job and love it: Shaun Fitzhenry

The Herald Times would like to introduce our readers to some of our community’s folks who work hard and take pride in what they do to help make our lives better and keep Otsego County a great place to live, work and play.

Who: Shaun Fitzhenry

Workplace/Title/How long? SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan: “I have been here almost six years. I started out out as an assistant, then moved up as a technician, then lead technician. Now I am the Water Mitigation Supervisor.”

What do you do each day? “I am certified in water damage restoration, microbial contamination and remediation, applied structural drying and carpet repair and reinstallation. And I am a certified asbestos contractor/supervisor by the State of Michigan.

I also have to continue my education with refresher courses. In my job I typically respond to emergency water or fire damage — day or night. I work 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. and I’m on call for a week, one week a month. I assess the safety hazards and determine the extent of the damage. Then I determine what is salvageable and non-salvageable. I communicate with my team, the homeowner, insurance adjustors and other contractors to make a plan to restore the property to pre-loss condition. I take lots of pictures and lots of documentation for the insurance companies.”

Why choose the job? “I grew up in Northern Michigan and the first few jobs I had were seasonal, so the winters were pretty boring. I had some water damage at my house, and after talking to the technicians, I got interested in restoration. I applied here at SERVPRO and have been here ever since!”

Why do you love it? “I get satisfaction in helping customers get through the rough time they are going through. It is never fun for them — but they love us — it is very rewarding!

I love that I have had opportunities to work in so many different places like Mackinac Island, or at a historic lighthouse on Beaver Island, and on Marquette Island, which was only accessible by boat. And I love that I work for such a great company where there is potential to learn and grow.”

What do you do in your spare time? “I love to spend time with my family — I have three kids. I love to be outside and go camping and hiking. I also love to ice skate and watch football and hockey.”

Contact: SERVPRO of Gaylord & Cheboygan, 651 Expressway Court, at (989) 705-2400.

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