EP62 A Submarine Collision and The Life Lessons Learned: An Interview with Chris Waits

In this crazy episode of Submarine Sea Stories, Chris Waits shares his fascinating journey, from growing up in a Navy family, attending MIT, and finding his passion in nuclear engineering, to serving in the Navy aboard a nuclear-powered submarine. Chris recounts a harrowing incident where his submarine, the USS Hartford, collided with the USS New Orleans, describing the immediate impact, frantic aftermath, and the life-altering lessons he learned. Despite the challenging experience, Chris transformed it into a powerful teaching moment for future sailors and now applies his lessons in his civilian role at a nuclear power plant. This episode is an eye-opening look into the intricacies and dangers of submarine navigation and the importance of vigilance and learning from past experiences.   00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 00:11 Growing Up in a Navy Family 00:48 Father's Submarine Career 01:58 Choosing the Navy and MIT 03:44 First Experiences with Nuclear Power 05:30 Transition to Civilian Nuclear Power 07:36 Joining the Submarine Force 09:04 First Deployment and Responsibilities 12:40 Life Aboard the Submarine 16:26 Collision Incident and Aftermath 21:01 Collision with the USS New Orleans 22:43 Immediate Aftermath and Damage Assessment 24:39 Struggles to Surface and Communication Challenges 25:56 Guided to Safety by the USS New Orleans 27:07 Reflections on the Incident and Leadership 29:18 Lessons Learned and Teaching at Submarine School 35:04 Applying Lessons in Civilian Life 40:22 Current Role and Final Thoughts