Jamie Healy, Head Equipment Manager, Columbus Blue Jackets 

SPHEM: What got you started in the equipment management profession and how did you get your start in Professional Hockey?

JH:  While playing hockey in high school, I worked at the local arena  pro shop and assisted the local IHL team (Kalamazoo Wings).  Upon graduation from college, I was hired as the team’s equipment manager.

SPHEM: You recently made the transition to Head Equipment Manager after serving as Assistant for several years.  What surprised you most about the new role?

JH:  Several adjustments for me were the additional administrative responsibilities as well as delegating and being less “hands on” on a daily basis.

SPHEM:  Last season you reached the 2,000-game milestone.  What advice can you give to those just starting out to reach such a milestone.

JH: It is a privilege to work in professional hockey.  You have to truly enjoy what you do as this job can be a grind. Listen and take advice from others while never stop learning along the way.

SPHEM:   Can you share an equipment tip you’ve relied on to keep a player in the game?

JH:  Having a helmet ready to be adjusted for a player on the bench at all times. Multiple times, this has helped a player from missing a shift.

SPHEM:  How has being involved with SPHEM and the annual meeting helped you professionally? 

JH: Networking with those in and out of this industry.  Putting faces with the names and sharing tips and stories with other members.

SPHEM:   Who were your professional mentors and what is the best advice they gave you?

JH: Clark “Corky” Osborn had a lot of patience teaching me the ropes back in Kalamazoo and he still helps out at our training camps here in Columbus to this day.  He taught me many “tricks of the trade” and gave me advice on how to work with management and players in our minor league days together.

SPHEM:  What is your favorite NHL city to visit on the road and why?

JH: Vancouver for the restaurants, shopping and the friendships I’ve made over the years there.

 SPHEM: What professional goals are you working towards now?

JH: The obvious goal is to win the Stanley Cup.

SPHEM: What do you and your family look forward to in the off-season?

JH: We like to travel and visit our family cottage on Lake Michigan.

Tell us a little about yourself:

JH:   My wife Darlene and I, have two sons, Garrett (28) and Brendan (25) who are both engaged and working in New York City and Boston.  I enjoy being outdoors, biking and attending the Indy 500.

All photos courtesy of Jamie Healy.