Meet Chad Reed ~ A Very Amusing Person ~
My Introduction to Amusements
It’s been said that if you wait long enough or search hard enough what you are looking for will sometimes find you. I believe this to be a fact, because this job found me!
I have worked in many different “jobs” over the years. And all were fine…Ok most were fine. I have a back ground in mechanics and continue doing that as a hobby, and sometimes as a source of income. A very wise person once told me “Do what you love and you will never really work a day in your life” Truer words have never been spoken! Since I was a child I love learning how things function. My family “lost” many lawn mowers, clocks and power tools as I would explore. As an adult I occasionally, I would take on new projects just to see if I was up to the challenge, and I enjoyed each one I faced.
In 2009 I started working at Safe Strap Company. Over the course of the next few years I worked in everything from operations and shipping to the weaving department. Last year I had an unexpected request to attend my first trade show, to offer support to a coworker. My thoughts at the time were, “This is so far out of my norm”… “This is a prank, right?” … but little did I know this was a working interview. Charma was a bit crafty on that one…LOL. After I saw the rides at the show, met some of the amazing people – to be honest – I was hooked. The craftsmanship and ingenuity amazed and impressed me. I wanted to learn more. Shortly after the show I was asked to be a part of the amusement team at SSC. I gladly accepted.
Over a year later… My experience has grown from conversations with many wonderful people. “Can you do this” questions are still highlights to my day. I enjoy each challenge. So when I say this “job” found me, it truly did …I was clueless that one job could be so fascinating, intriguing and captivating!
It is a joy being a part of amusements. I have been welcomed with open arms. This industry makes you feel like you are part of the family. I know I have only scratched the surface of the things I can learn. And honestly I can not wait to see what comes next.