U.S. Representative Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) announced her August Constituent Spotlight, Ian “Shige” Ainoa, an Air Force veteran who currently works for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as an IT specialist and scientific diver.
“Through his hard work to bring joy to everyone he meets, Shige’s dedication to the people of his community is inspiring,” said U.S. Rep. Strickland. “On top of his military service and day job, he continues to go above and beyond through his volunteer efforts to make the South Sound a better place.”
Ainoa recently earned a Dive Master Certification, which will help him continue his work with the EPA to ensure the Puget Sound waters remain a safe and protected ecosystem. At the EPA, he recently concluded his term as manager of the Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander (AANHPI) program for EPA Region 10.
“My goal is to bring aloha and goodwill to everyone I am fortunate enough to cross paths with, and I am grateful for any chance I get to make the South Sound a better and more inclusive place,” said Ainoa. “I am honored to be selected by Congresswoman Strickland for her Constituent Spotlight this month. It is rewarding to serve my community through both my job at the EPA and other volunteer opportunities.”
In addition to his job, Ainoa continuously dedicates his time and energy to various volunteer opportunities. He is an active board member of the University Place Veterans Plaza, where he spends his personal time engraving and installing new commemorative tiles. He has also coached Little League softball for the last 3 years.
Congresswoman Strickland’s Constituent Spotlight program recognizes exemplary South Sound residents. To nominate a resident of Washington’s 10th Congressional District fill out this nomination form.
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