Retirement of building engineer leads to a new leader

For several years, many students have walked down the hallway and pass by a glass office next to the journalism hallway and the swimming pool many times. However, not many of them know who works inside the office.

Tim Cox had been working at Westside for over 20 years as the school’s Chief Building Engineer.

Unfortunately, Cox had to retire due to his diagnosis of cancer last year. This fall his position has been filled by a friend of his, Rick Avard.

“Cox’s job was a little bit of everything,” Richard Avard said. “He was in charge of building services and the custodial crew, as well as the building engineers who control the heating and cooling of the building.”

Cox also took control of the chlorine levels in the pool and he helped with the flooding recovery  last month.

“He knows every inch of this building, like it’s the back of his hand,” Avard said.

Despite having big shoes to fill, Avard is confident he is worthy to take Cox’s place.

“I look forward to fulfill my role as Westside’s Chief Building Engineer,” Avard said. “I’ve learned a lot from Cox. He had a lot of experience and was a great leader.”

Avard wants a fundraiser to give Cox a brick outside next to the Fred Phelps football field. He believes Westside will keep Cox in their thoughts and prayers.