Chili Hicks is not a politician — he’s a people-first leader, a U.S. Navy veteran, devoted husband, father, grandfather, and longtime Stanwood neighbor. He believes in the power of listening, showing up, and doing the work with integrity, empathy, and purpose.
Born in Florida and adopted as a child, Chili grew up in North Carolina, where he learned early on the value of resilience, respect, and hard work. After graduating high school, he joined the U.S. Navy and served for nearly 21 years, rising to the rank of Master Chief Petty Officer. His service took him around the world—from the Persian Gulf to the Mediterranean—where he led diverse teams, handled mission-critical operations in engineering and human resources, and developed leadership capabilities in others under high-pressure conditions.
After retiring from the Navy, Chili brought his collaborative leadership style to the private sector. He spent ten years at Boeing as a Human Resources Manager, supporting large-scale teams across the 747-8 and 777 programs. He later served in senior roles at XPO Logistics, Frontier Communications, and Ziply Fiber. Across these positions, Chili focused on talent development, fairness in the workplace, labor relations, and transparent, strategic communication. His leadership is guided by one principle: people are the greatest asset of any organization. He’s committed to creating healthy environments where individuals can grow, lead, and realize their potential.
Chili holds a Bachelor’s degree and an MBA—both earned through night school while working full-time and raising a family. His personal journey is one of perseverance, lifelong learning, and the belief that everyone deserves the chance to achieve greatness. Whether navigating union negotiations or mentoring new leaders, Chili leads with clarity, compassion, and accountability.
In Stanwood, Chili is more than a resident—he’s an active builder of the community fabric. He’s served on the Planning Commission, chaired the City Council Salary Commission, and contributed to the Stanwood-Camano YMCA Board of Directors. He’s volunteered as a youth coach, led Drug Education for Youth (DEFY) programs, and held leadership roles with American Legion Post 92. His hands-on approach reflects his deep belief in lifting others up and making space for every voice.
Chili also supports the family’s small business, which his wife Cheryl has successfully run for over 25 years. From mentoring youth to backing local veterans and supporting local entrepreneurs, Chili invests in people—because he knows that thriving communities are built by empowering individuals and embracing what makes each of us unique.
He and Cheryl, married for over 35 years, have raised three daughters and are now proud grandparents of six—all growing up in the community they call home. For Chili, public service isn’t about power—it’s about people. It’s about listening, leading with transparency, and helping others reach their full potential.
To Chili, public service isn’t about politics — it’s about protecting the way of life that makes Washington special. He believes in accountability, transparency, and keeping government focused on the people it serves. He’s running to uplift his neighbors, honor their values, and keep Washington a place where everyone has a chance to succeed. He’s running to make sure your voice is heard — and your values are protected.
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