Eppihimer, on the left in the back row, with some of the Special Olympics athletes he coaches.
Power player
Postal Employee’s avocation shifts career, life trajectory
Alaska District employee Mark Eppihimer unlocked a wealth of strengths when he got into power lifting a decade ago.
“I thought it might be fun to do some strength training,” he said. “After about five years, I decided to do it competitively.”
Eppihimer — 6’3”, 300 pounds — has twice been voted Alaska’s Strongest Man. He also set a state record for “dead lifting” when he picked a 716-pound barbell off the floor and held it in a standing position.
Alaska District Business Development Specialist Mark Eppihimer demonstrates his power lifting prowess.
Eppihimer’s life took another turn three years ago, when he was approached about coaching Special Olympics athletes.
“I decided to give it a try, and it’s been very rewarding,” he said.
Eppihimer, a letter carrier for about a decade, moved outside his comfort zone again when a business development specialist position opened this year.
He went for the job — and got it.
“I’m learning as I go,” he said. “I enjoy meeting with customers and convincing them that the Postal Service can assist them with their mailing and shipping needs.”
via USPS News Link