Mark Tackabury

As the Science Mill’s Interactive Exhibits Technician, Mark brings decades of mechanical expertise and a proactive approach to keeping exhibits running smoothly. Drawing on his extensive background in submarine repair, he focuses on scheduled maintenance to help prevent problems before they arise.

Mark recently retired after 30 years of government service, including six years of active-duty submarine service as a nuclear mechanic and 24 years in submarine repair. His career included roles as a mechanic, mechanical supervisor, and mechanical engineering technician at Trident Refit Facility in Bangor, Washington, overseeing mechanical systems outside the nuclear and missile systems. In 2017, he returned to Puget Sound Naval Shipyard’s Combat Systems Division, working with missile and torpedo systems, periscopes, radar, communications equipment, and more.

Outside the museum, Mark enjoys home projects and gardening. He moved to the area with his sister in October 2025 and has been making their new house a home ever since. With a guest house complete and a new workshop ready to use, his attention is turning to raised vegetable beds, climbing roses, and plans for terraced gardens. Along the way, he’s learning what grows best in Central Texas, with the goal of becoming more self-sufficient.