Volunteer Spotlight: Lee Hiltenbrand

Lee Hiltenbrand has been a volunteer for EVCNB for many years, sharing his extensive technical and mechanical skills for the good of the organization and the community. He now serves as the lead for our Mass Care group and the Public Works Augmentation Team (PWAT). These projects have been so thoroughly researched and successful at such a high level that regional, state, and educational offices have turned to Lee and his groups for input and guidance. We are glad we can give him this spotlight that he so richly deserves.

We asked Lee about his experience with EVCNB.

What attracted you to EVCNB Volunteer work?

Seven or eight years ago I attended an EVCNB presentation about our area’s local geography and its association with historic earthquakes. I immediately started thinking about the importance of preparedness skills. Being an avid high-altitude, multi-season camper, I have developed a wide base of knowledge about personal resiliency. I knew those skills could be used at EVCNB.

I learned more about EVCNB by taking one of its water and sanitation classes.  Working with the class instructor and hearing more about the organization made me realize what focused and energetic volunteers we have. I was happy to sign on to such a dedicated group that gathered with purpose while also having fun.

How does this work bring you satisfaction?

I find all volunteering to be rewarding, knowing that I can give back some of the time and guidance others have shared with me throughout my life.  Now when an audience member shares their thanks and enthusiasm after a presentation or training, I derive a great deal of pleasure knowing that I have contributed some bit of helpful skill or knowledge.  I find the EVCNB family of volunteers firmly committed to our core mission of preparedness and I know for sure that we all make a tangible difference in the lives of community members.

I am particularly proud to be the leader of the Mass Care group and the Manzanita Public Works Augmentation Team (PWAT). The latter is a group of seven volunteers who are trained and ready to fill in when the City’s Public Works team is overburdened or unable to reach a disaster area.  We are proud to have researched, planned, and implemented several major response projects: retrofitting a radio communication trailer, adding solar panels to a mobile fueling trailer, and creating a mobile water filtration and purification trailer that will be able to produce 1500 gallons per hour of potable water. 

What else do you like to do with your spare time?

My wife Debi and I are ramping up our travel plans to include some new destinations. Also, creativity in the kitchen is always an enjoyable challenge for me. I am delighted when I can share one of the palatable concoctions with others while we all enjoy a nice glass of wine.  I enjoy reading non-fiction particularly nineteenth and twentieth century history and any book written by Timothy Egan. And, my wood shop is always beckoning me to spend more time there where I can temporarily put aside my technology and mechanical work and allow my artistic side to be reborn.