Christopher Smitherman

Professional Background

Christopher Smitherman possesses a rich and diverse professional background, having cultivated his skills and expertise across various industries and roles. With a career that began in the mechanical engineering field and expanded into leadership and media, Christopher has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to personal growth and professional development. His journey includes pivotal positions that underscore his adaptability and proficiency in managing diverse teams and operations.

Christopher's early career commenced at McDonald's, where he served as an Operations Associate. This experience provided him with an invaluable foundation in operational efficiency and customer service. He subsequently honed his leadership skills while presiding over Raw A.M Motivation, a role that reflected his passion for inspiring others and fostering motivational initiatives in the community.

Transitioning into the media landscape, Christopher took on the significant role of Managing Editor at Sports Illustrated, where he oversaw editorial strategies, contributing to one of the most recognized names in sports journalism. This position further showcased his ability to lead and innovate within fast-paced environments, enabling him to bring compelling narratives to readers around the globe.

In addition to these key roles, Christopher has an extensive background in construction as a former Construction Worker at Picture It Construction. This varied experience underscored his versatility and hands-on capability, which later translated into his work with Operating Connections LLC as President, where he focused on strategic growth and development initiatives.

Additionally, Christopher's experience extends to impactful projects such as the Papermaking Process Improvement Project with The Green Appropriate Technology Research Cooperation Center, which emphasizes his commitment to sustainability and innovation in technology-driven processes. He also contributed as a Summer Intern at the Hamilton County Prosecutor's Office, gaining insights into the workings of legal proceedings and public service. Christopher's career has been defined by his commitment to learning and development, as seen through his participation in the Lockheed Martin Leadership Institute as a Cohort 5 Member.

Education and Achievements

Christopher's education has played a critical role in shaping his career. He studied Mechanical Engineering at Miami University, which instilled in him a strong analytical and problem-solving mindset. This technical foundation has been instrumental in many of his subsequent roles, particularly in operational and project management.

Further advancing his education, Christopher pursued a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a specialization in Global Leadership from Colorado Technical University, achieving an outstanding GPA of 4.0. This exemplary academic performance reflects his dedication to mastering the art of leadership and strategic decision-making in an increasingly globalized business environment. The skills acquired during his MBA studies have empowered Christopher to navigate the complexities of modern organizational challenges effectively.

Notable Achievements

In addition to his academic credentials, Christopher has marked various achievements throughout his professional journey. His leadership at Raw A.M Motivation exemplifies his commitment to empowering others, showcasing his skills in motivational speaking and personal development.

His tenure as Managing Editor at Sports Illustrated is another hallmark of his career, signifying his capability to influence and shape content in a competitive marketplace. At Operating Connections LLC, his leadership was instrumental in establishing a solid operational framework that promoted innovation and collaboration.

Christopher has been involved in numerous internships and projects, each contributing a wealth of experience and insight to his diverse skill set. His roles as an intern with the Hamilton County Prosecutor's Office and the Metropolitan Sewer District of Greater Cincinnati speak to his ability to adapt and excel in different environments, further enriching his understanding of community impact and service.

Professional Skills

• Leadership Development
• Project Management
• Operations Management
• Editorial Management
• Mechanical Engineering
• Business Strategy
• Process Improvement

Community Engagement

• Commitment to Community Development
• Youth Sports Referee Experience
• Public Service Contributions