Kaleigh Smith Email and Phone Number

Provide technical assistance and oversight to ensure successful submarine overhaul and refueling operations at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.

Supervise watch team aboard MTS 711, a converted US Naval submarine, during operations of reactor, steam, electrical, and safety systems. Certify officer and enlisted sailors as nuclear operators through oral and written exams, practical training sessions, casualty simulations, and plant operations. Orchestrate student training schedule to ensure on-time qualification of ~80sailors every 16 weeks to support fleet demand. Coordinate high-risk maintenance on pressurized systems, energized gear, and vital reactor safety equipment using strict adherence to technical procedures.

I worked under a mechanical engineer to help facilitate a thrust bearing test program from all stages at the Advanced Products and Systems location during my third and final co-op rotation. I prepared, installed, and kept track of various thrust shoes at the test rig. I analyzed data and prepared internal summary presentations. Additionally, I assisted with the production of an official test report for the customer by creating tables, plots and figures. I ran simulation software to compare theoretical data to experimental data. I extrapolated test data to account for real-life operating conditions and internally presented my findings.

I worked in the Pump Design and Development Team in the Defense Business Segment during my second rotation at Curtiss-Wright. My main objective was to assist the team with design challenges and testing of the pump for on-time shipping to the customer. As my main project, I designed, tested, and published a mechanical locking procedure for critical pump components. Other responsibilities included preparing drawings and hardware for testing procedures, and using engineer input to refine a standard assembly protocol.

Organized public engagement events and worked with constituents for State Representative Dom Costa.

Researched the effects of carbon morphology on biofilm-electrode performance. Completed research paper, delivered presentation and presented a technical poster.

During my first rotation at Curtiss-Wright, I worked as a mechanical design engineer co-op in the Generator and Motor Design Team of the Defense Business Segment. My main objective was to expedite generator testing by assisting design engineers with tooling design. I used Solid Edge to design testing instrumentation according to strict specifications. These tools allowed the team to carry out tests to meet customer requirements.

I used social media to engage with prospective University of Pittsburgh students. I was repeatedly a top performer among my peers, achieving the maximum tier based on engagement with social media posts.

Assist with recitation, grade homework and exams, hold weekly office hours, meet with students outside of office hours, occasionally lead recitation.