The NSF COMPASS Veterans Innovation Fellowship at the University of Michigan is honored to celebrate the achievements of fellow Casey Chason (NCSU, Biomedical Engineering ’26). Casey was recently awarded the Army Achievement Medal for meritorious service during his Annual Training with the 151 CEC-A of the North Carolina Army National Guard. While serving from August 2 to August 16, 2025, Specialist Chason distinguished himself through a unique blend of technical expertise and tactical leadership. As an aspiring engineer in Dr. Orlin Velev’s research group, Casey applied his technical background to enhance his unit’s capabilities in the following ways:
- Training & Proficiency: He delivered in-depth instruction on military robotic systems to his entire company, increasing the effective operation of these systems by nearly 40-fold across three platoons.
- Prototyping for Readiness: Leveraging his skills in 3D printing, Casey independently designed and manufactured 10 replica demolition charges to provide his company with higher-quality training aids.
- Mission Support: During a culminating trench-breach mission, Casey’s use of robotics for reconnaissance directly supported the commander’s intent and ensured mission success.
Casey’s professionalism and dedication reflect the high standards of the Veterans Innovation Fellowship. We are proud to support his journey as he continues to innovate both in the laboratory and in service to his country.