Richard Smith, MBA
About Richard Smith, MBA
Richard Smith is a Modernization Manager at Chevron in Ames, Iowa, with a diverse background in military and educational roles, holding multiple advanced degrees.
Title at Chevron
Richard Smith serves as the Modernization Manager at Chevron in Ames, Iowa. In this role, he is likely involved in overseeing and executing modernization projects, aiming to improve operational efficiencies and implement new technologies. His position at Chevron builds on his extensive experience in managing operations and leading large teams.
Previous Roles in Renewable Energy and Education
Before joining Chevron, Richard Smith worked for six years at Renewable Energy Group, Inc. as the Manager of the Operations Control Team. During this period, he honed his leadership and operational management skills. Additionally, Smith served as a Professor of Military Science at Iowa State University from 2011 to 2015, where his efforts led the program to achieve top national rankings and win the MacArthur Award for three consecutive years. He also contributed to the Junior ROTC program at Henry Perrine Baldwin High School for 11 months, coaching and guiding over 180 students.
Military Service Background
Richard Smith has a robust military background, having served in various capacities in the US Army. From 2013 to 2015, he was a Lieutenant Colonel in the US Army, followed by a short stint as the Brigade Executive Officer for the 3rd Brigade US Army Cadet Command in 2015. His military career includes a notable role as Operations Officer at 3/320th Field Artillery in Afghanistan from 2010 to 2011 and as an Observer Controller at the US Army National Training Center in California from 2005 to 2008.
Education and Certifications
Richard Smith holds multiple advanced degrees. He earned an MBA with a concentration in International Business from Louisiana State University Shreveport in 2020. Additionally, he has a Master of Homeland Security in Public Health Preparedness from Penn State University and a Master of Arts in Management and Leadership from Webster University. His educational journey began at the United States Military Academy at West Point, from where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Economics in 1996.
Personal Life and Accomplishments
Richard Smith is married to Holly Wells, who is also a graduate of the United States Military Academy (USMA '97). Together, they have three children named Zac, Lulu, and Gemma. Smith is trained in Mentors in Violence Prevention (MVP) and has developed programs to combat sexual assault both on campus and in the broader community. His initiatives have had a tangible impact on the communities he has served.