Meet LLNL: Configuration Management Engineer Richard Tran

Richard Tran, the configuration management engineer at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), plays a vital role in maintaining the safety and operational integrity of the Superblock facilities. Since joining LLNL in August 2023, Tran makes sure these buildings operate according to their original designs.

“We ensure that we’re still operating from the same design we started out with,” Tran said. “If changes are made, we make sure they’re documented properly. It’s all about maintaining safety and quality assurance.”

Working under LLNL’s Strategic Deterrence Directorate, Tran has already made significant contributions, including revising and reauthoring the Lab’s configuration management manual. He has also been involved in long-term efforts to improve change control processes in the Superblock, a project he hopes to help bring to completion.

Tran’s professional journey began with nearly a decade of service in the U.S. Navy, where he worked on nuclear reactors as a machinist mate nuclear and served as a Navy diver. While balancing the demands of his military career, he earned a bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering technology from Excelsior University in Albany, N.Y.

During his time in the Navy, Tran served aboard the USS Mississippi, completing three deployments, including its maiden voyage. After re-enlisting and working in a quality assurance shop in San Diego, he decided to transition to civilian life to explore new opportunities. Through a Navy program that provided work experience at private companies, Tran worked as an operations engineer at Sony before applying to LLNL. Joining the Lab brought him closer to his hometown of Tracy, California.

“I had to decide whether to do 10 more years or try something new,” Tran said. “I chose to explore and try new opportunities.”

Tran’s commitment to education continues today. He is pursuing a master’s degree in management and supply chain operations at California State University, East Bay. He views the degree as a versatile tool to enhance his management skills and help him improve processes in his current role and future endeavors. Having a growth mindset has been one of Tran’s driving forces – a belief he learned from his family. 

From a young age, Tran developed a passion for science and math. His father, an electrical engineer, served as an early inspiration for his interest in engineering. Choosing to join the Navy was a decision that went against his family’s expectations and traditional cultural customs, but Tran credits the experience with shaping his career and giving him the opportunity to pursue higher education.

“Despite my parents not approving of some the choices I’ve made, I worked hard to get to where I’m at today,” he said, “They’re supportive now and have a better understanding of my journey.”

Tran’s upbringing also inspired his love for restoring old cars, a hobby he began as a teenager fixing up his family’s minivan. Today, he spends his free time working on vehicles, including a 1971 Mustang, 1953 F100 and a 2002 Ford Lightning, finding satisfaction in hands-on work that balances his outdoor pursuits like golf and running.

At LLNL, Tran has found a strong sense of community among his colleagues, particularly through his cohort of new hires, with whom he regularly connects. He appreciates the Lab’s emphasis on networking and collaboration, which has allowed him to meet people across departments and learn about the diverse work being done.

“I really enjoy how the Lab fosters networking and community,” Tran said. “It’s great to meet people from different parts of the Lab and learn about the amazing work they do.”

Outside of work, Tran enjoys fishing in the Bay Area, often taking time to clean up trash with his friends to help preserve the environment. He also visits a Vietnamese temple in Concord when his schedule allows, staying connected to his culture and religion.

Reflecting on his career, Tran emphasizes the importance of networking and maintaining a positive outlook. He encourages others to connect with colleagues and explore the wide range of opportunities at LLNL. He also believes in the power of gratitude and optimism, advising others to focus on the positives in their day-to-day lives.

Tran sees this mindset as key to personal and professional growth.

“Always look for the good in every day,” he said. “Optimism is learned. Wake up feeling grateful, and it’ll shape how you approach everything.”