Meet LLNL: Machine Tool Repair Specialist Eric Vinn

For Eric Vinn, fixing things isn’t just a job, it’s a way of life. As a machine tool repair specialist at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Vinn has spent nearly four years solving complex problems and keeping vital equipment running smoothly.

Working as part of a 13-person team, Vinn specializes in repairing CNC (computer numerical control) and manual machines and retrofitting older equipment to meet modern standards. His role also includes supporting 15 shops across LLNL, addressing everything from machine crashes to custom design projects. Once a project is assigned to him, Vinn takes full ownership of the task, ensuring the solution is both effective and reliable.

“We have a sharp crew with a wide skill set,” Vinn said. “Everybody gets along, and it’s a healthy dynamic. I jokingly say we have the best team at the Lab.”

Vinn joined LLNL in June 2021 after more than a decade in the machine repair industry. A family friend and former coworker introduced him to the Lab, and the opportunity came at a pivotal time in his career.

Feeling overwhelmed by the stress of his previous job, Vinn made the leap to LLNL, seeking a healthier work environment. Though he initially feared the change, he quickly found his footing, taking on larger projects and contributing to the Lab’s mission.

“Within a month or so, I was given bigger projects and told, ‘Hey, make this happen,’” he said. “It was a good feeling because it’s not about how fast you finish a task, rather it’s about getting it right.”

When he’s not repairing machines at LLNL, Vinn can be found tinkering on various projects. You can find him most often in his garage, restoring jet skis and motorcycles or working on metal fabrication projects. His passion for mechanics is something he’s passing on to his 8-year-old son. Together they built a home gym for his 10-year-old daughter, who enjoys gymnastics. He is also slowly building a Volkswagen Karmann Ghia.

“My son is building a jet ski with me,” Vinn said proudly. “My boy knows what all the tools are called and what the engine components are on a jet ski.”

Vinn is also an avid outdoorsman and fitness enthusiast. He enjoys rock climbing, cycling and wakeboarding. He’s currently training for a Spartan Ultra Marathon, a 31-mile race with 60 obstacles which he will compete in early April. “I’ve been jogging a lot – 18 miles last weekend, 7 or 8 miles here and there,” he said. “I’m just competing against myself. I just want to complete it.”

Vinn’s diverse life experiences have shaped his approach to work and teamwork. He developed a strong work ethic and an ability to adapt to different situations. He believes failures are essential for growth and views them as opportunities to learn and improve.

At LLNL, Vinn appreciates the supportive culture, where the focus is on getting things done correctly rather than rushing to meet deadlines. He values the collaborative spirit of his team and the willingness of others to help when needed.

Vinn also believes in the importance of kindness and connection. He recalled a time in Yosemite when he helped a family fix their RV in exchange for dinner, saying that small acts of kindness can lead to meaningful connections.

As someone who has navigated career changes and challenges, Vinn encourages others to set ambitious goals and work diligently toward them. He stresses the importance of being proactive in advancing one’s career and avoiding distractions like excessive screen time.

“No one is going to advance your career but you,” Vinn said, "You have to advocate for yourself.”

For Vinn, the combination of meaningful work, a supportive team and a healthy work-life balance has made his time at LLNL deeply rewarding. Making the switch to LLNL, he says, has been one of the best decisions of his career.