The Y-12er spotlight shines on one of our own. It takes all Y-12 employees to make the mission happen successfully and safely. All views and opinions are the employee’s own and do not necessarily reflect those of CNS.
Derek A. never thought he would have a career focused on chemistry, but now, he couldn't see himself anywhere else but Y-12. Photo by Jordan Ray.
Derek A. grew up in a small, rural town east of Nashville called Liberty. Derek, an employee in Analytical Chemistry, was set on leaving his Tennessee hometown when it came time for college.
“I couldn’t wait to attend a large university that provided lots of opportunities and a diverse group of people,” he said. “The University of Tennessee at Knoxville was everything I had hoped it would be.”
The once pre-law major said he changed his mind on careers more times than he can count.
“I was indifferent on most subjects, but one was distinctive — chemistry. It was my least favorite by far. I only took it to meet a requirement and remember stressing over a mid-term. I told my study partner, ‘I have no idea what I want to do when I graduate, but I know it won’t have anything to do with chemistry,’” he said. “Shortly thereafter, something clicked. I remember the exact instant while working with molecular synthesis when the interactions and calculations suddenly made sense. It was my eureka moment, and everything fell into place after that.”
After graduation, Derek was working at a CVS pharmacy with plans to attend pharmacy school the next year, but a former colleague suggested he apply at Y-12. This unexpected route got him closer to his then soon-to-be, fiancé, and he “jumped at the opportunity, and it has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” he said. “I have never looked back.”
What is your favorite aspect of your work environment?
It’s the people. Some think that working around such highly technical, highly skilled individuals would create an environment where there’s only one mindset and culture. Nothing could be further from the truth. My favorite moments are spent on the lab floors, getting to know my team’s personalities, motivations, and struggles, while observing their work. I’m very blessed to be associated with such a fantastic group of people who are so dedicated to our mission.
What work advice would you offer someone new to Y-12?
Y-12 thrives on two types of talent, and it needs both to succeed. On one hand, we need people with experience across multiple systems — people who understand how different pieces of our organization connect and can navigate diverse subjects. We also need experts in specific fields who provide specialized depth. Whether you want to be a generalist or a specialist, find your track and own it.
Why is it important we hold ourselves accountable in our daily tasks?
As long as there is instability and uncertainty in the world, the world will need experts in uranium and special nuclear materials. Holding ourselves and each other accountable in our daily tasks is the way we ensure Y-12 maintains and sustains that role. We must continually find new ways to be efficient in our work and not waste our time or efforts. However, our mission doesn’t only include maintaining a safer world for our families and our neighbors but also ensuring our peers make it home safely each day.
What’s your favorite outside-of-work activity and why?
I’m passionate about philanthropy. I’ve served on the executive board of the Knoxville Scottish Rite Foundation for 7 years and am now chairman. Our work with the University of Tennessee’s Speech and Hearing Program, local schools, and community groups is deeply meaningful to me. Donations and support to families are given anonymously by those who genuinely want to help others with their most basic needs.
I know how it feels to be on the other side and how appreciative I felt in seeing the kindness of others. If you ever come across a point in your life where it feels like you’re just going through the motions, find a philanthropy you believe in and spend time around those passionate about helping others. You won’t regret it.