James Nickerson, known socially as “Pops”, is the Bangor Y’s Facilities Manager. Prior to the Y, he spent several years in maintenance and facilities including a position as maintenance associate at Commonsense Housing in Bangor.
James’ role at the Y is wide-ranging and essential to the Y’s success, from maintaining and improving facilities and equipment to implementing renovations and planning future projects. He also sets up and tears down for events. “I like working with my hands, fixing and creating things that help people accomplish their goals,” he says.
Born in Maine, James spent time in California and almost every town in Penobscot County. He attributes his growth as a Y professional to mentors Dave Kneeland, the Y’s Senior Manager of Facilities, and Al Soucie who retired from the Y’s Facilities department. “They taught me a lot in a short period of time,” he says.
James strongly believes in the Y’s core values especially the value of Respect. “Once you have respect for your fellow man, the rest will follow,” he believes.
At home James enjoys spending time with his children and working in his shop. Asked if there was anything people might not know about him, he says no. “I’m pretty much an open book!”