Not all heroes wear capes, or service uniforms for that matter. SMART Scholar Patrick Fedick, Ph.D., works on protecting America through his research at the Naval Air Warfare Center, Weapons Division (NAWCWD), China Lake, California. Patrick graduated with a doctoral degree in Chemistry from Purdue University before transitioning to a full-time chemist at NAWCWD. He enjoys seeking ways to better defend our country and protect the Warfighter while maintaining our environmental stewardship. Patrick says, “I get to work on interesting chemistry problems, in a highly collaborative environment, with excellent colleagues, to make sure America is protected.” In addition to his specified duties, Patrick has worked to modernize and expand NAWCWD’s mass spectrometers capabilities, obtaining three new mass spectrometers and recruiting two postdoctoral fellows. Patrick also devotes personal time to inspiring the future generation of STEM, participating in science days at the local elementary and high schools. Additionally, Patrick is the American Chemical Society Mohave Desert Local Section Chair and organizes chemistry outreach events.
Matthew Halstead
PhD, Nuclear Engineering
