Chase Smith

Chase Smith serves as a Neutron Chopper Technician at Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s Spallation Neutron Source (SNS). In this vital role, he helps build, test, and run the high-speed, spinning rotor systems that scientists use to study advanced materials at the atomic level. Chase brings a deep background in managing high-stakes mechanical systems to the SNS team. He began his career at sea in the Merchant Marine, where he looked after the core mechanical and propulsion systems that powered large ships across the oil, military support, and cargo industries. During his time at sea, Chase earned advanced certifications as a Junior Engineer and Fireman/Watertender, while mastering tanker and pump operations. He also took on key safety roles by training in advanced firefighting, helicopter firefighting, and fast rescue boat operations.

After returning to land, Chase brought his high-level skills to a utility plant built to survive Category 5 hurricanes, ensuring critical power stayed on during the worst storms. He has also successfully managed a busy industrial repair center, leading teams to fix heavy machinery for the energy, paper, chemical, and science fields. Chase is recognized for his unique ability to solve complex mechanical puzzles and keep vital, high-pressure operations running safely.