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Seattle City (spot)Light: Patrick Doyle, Associate Mechanical Engineer

The Basics

How long have you been at City Light?  Six years 

Division: Engineering & Technology Operations                     

Tell us about your role. What does your job entail?  My role entails supporting operations, maintenance and improvements at our generation facilities. The mechanical engineers support the operations of the turbines and generators. We perform inspections and document equipment conditions. We also work on redesigns and improvements to supporting mechanical systems.  

Background

Hometown: Lake Stevens, Wash. 

Alma Mater: University of Washington 

Area of study: Power generation 

Tell us about your family: I am married and have two girls. My oldest is 19 and in college. My youngest is 8 and is going into third grade. My wife and I have been together for 15 years. We enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, boating and golfing. We also like to travel. Our favorite trips have been to Hilton Head, S.C., and San Diego, Calif.

Just for Fun

What would people never guess that you do in your role? The biggest surprise usually is how much and how often I get dirty working with the crews maintaining the equipment. Most people think of engineers as standing around watching, but our work involves getting into the turbines, generators, oil systems, sumps, penstocks and valves.  

What’s your favorite book and why? My favorite book is “The Hunt for Red October.” 

Who do you admire the most? That’s easy, my father. Now that I am a father of two girls, I have a lot of admiration for how he was able to raise our family.  

What is your idea of a perfect day? Going to the national parks with my girls and having a good dinner. 

If you could only take three items with you to a deserted island, what would they be? Water filter kit, multi-tool and a compass.