Hank MacDonald is a senior producer, director, and editor who has worked at the USPTO since 2012. He is also a U.S. Navy veteran. Originally from Fort Knox, Kentucky, Hank grew up as a “military brat” and enlisted in 2000 after completing high school in Columbia, South Carolina. He served aboard the USS Saipan and served a total of five years in the Navy, including multiple overseas tours. Upon returning he used the G.I. Bill to study political science prior to embracing his passion for production and sound in media arts.

Hank’s best memory of his time in service involved the sinking an old war ship that was slated for decommissioning.

“My team and I were given four hours to try and sink it before the SEALs and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams rigged it with explosives,” he said. “Needless to say we accomplished our mission, and then some.”

He believes his time in the Navy helped him gain valuable leadership and organizational skills, as well as an exceptional work ethic, which has helped him to succeed.

“My time in service also helped me forget fear in anything I do, and to take pride in all my work and accomplishments. It has taught me how to triumph in stressful situations and create the best possible product for my clients. I am most appreciative of the teamwork skills I developed while serving.”

Hank is currently serving as a board member for the UMA, or USPTO Military Association, an affinity group whose mission is to provide fellowship, mentorship, and advocacy for military veterans working at the USPTO, and to help educate others on the important contributions that veterans have made – and continue to make – to the workforce and our nation. Membership is open to all USPTO employees, veterans and non-veterans alike.

For more information, visit the UMA website or Facebook page or contact uma@uspto.gov.