Scott Waddle

Commander Scott Waddle is a retired U.S. Navy officer with a two-decade career in nuclear submarine operations. Waddle graduated from the United States Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry. His career included roles in constructing, maintaining, and operating nuclear-powered submarines, serving aboard Atlantic Fleet Trident Ballistic Missile boats Alabama and Kentucky, as well as Pacific Fleet fast attack submarines San Francisco and Greeneville. After earning a Master of Science degree from National Defense University in Washington, D.C., Waddle was selected to command the Los Angeles class fast attack submarine USS Greeneville.

As commanding officer of the Greeneville, Waddle addressed significant challenges, including low morale and high turnover. He implemented a leadership approach he calls Deck Plate Leadership, focusing on commitment and cohesion among the crew. Under his command, personnel turnover decreased to 3 percent, the rate of military promotions tripled, and operating expenses were reduced by 25 percent. The USS Greeneville achieved high scores in operational and combat readiness inspections within the Pacific Fleet.

Waddle's career was marked by a critical incident when he ordered an emergency surface maneuver that resulted in a collision between the USS Greeneville and the Japanese fishing vessel Ehime Maru, leading to the deaths of nine people. In the aftermath, Waddle accepted full responsibility for the incident, testifying during the Navy's Court of Inquiry without immunity. He was honorably discharged from the Navy and retired with the rank of commander.

Following his naval service, Waddle has shared his experiences in leadership, accountability, and crisis management as a keynote speaker. He is the author of the book "The Right Thing," which explores lessons in integrity and resilience. Waddle's presentations draw on his leadership in high-stakes environments and his experiences navigating adversity, offering insights relevant to corporate leadership, ethics, and organizational culture.