Reggie Sawyer began his maritime career in 1988 as a Longshoreman Driver before joining CP&O in 1998 as a Master Mechanic and Gearman. A joint partnership between Cooper/T. Smith and Ports America, CP&O provides stevedoring and terminal services at all major terminal facilities in the Port of Hampton Roads.

Working as a Master Mechanic and Gearman, Reggie is responsible for the day-to-day maintenance and repair of all CP&O-owned equipment and gear, ranging from forklifts and yard hustlers to vehicles and trailers to lifting spreaders and slings.

“I love my job,” he said. “It can be hard work and long hours, but I never take it for granted. It’s blessed me so I can support my family and myself.”

Reggie values his team members and the positive atmosphere they’ve created from years of working side-by-side. Reggie explained, “I started this job working with Earl Jefferson, Eddie Exum, and Leroy Wescot. That original team and I worked together like a well-oiled machine. We became as close as brothers – the longshoreman community is like a family within itself. Through retirement and time, that team has changed. Now I work with Mark Hartley, Nelson Billups, and George Harris, and we continue to be a tight-knit group.”

One of Reggie’s favorite aspects of the job is how the team is united by sharing the same goals and objectives. “At the end of the day, we all pride ourselves on providing high-quality work and getting the job done safely in an efficient and timely manner.”