United States Navy
East Setauket, New York
Managing Director · Engineer · Public Servant
Leading SONOTEC US Inc. with over two decades of engineering expertise, military service, and an unwavering commitment to community.
About Me
I'm Christopher Portelli — a Long Island–based engineer and executive with a career built on precision, leadership, and service. I founded and lead SONOTEC US Inc., the American subsidiary of SONOTEC, a global leader in ultrasonic sensing and measurement solutions.
My professional journey spans service as a U.S. Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technician, hands-on engineering roles in the defense and industrial sectors, an MBA, and over a decade building SONOTEC's U.S. presence from the ground up. In 2023, we celebrated a decade of growth and impact in the American market.
Outside the office, I remain deeply committed to the community that shaped me. As a volunteer firefighter since 2002 and now an Ex-Chief at the Central Islip Fire Department, I serve alongside 180 dedicated firefighters protecting our neighbors every day. My years in the U.S. Navy instilled the discipline and values that guide everything I do.
I believe in hiring the best person for the job, full stop — regardless of gender or background. Equal pay for equal work isn't a policy at SONOTEC US, it's a standard I hold personally.
Experience
Community Service
Service doesn't end at the office. Since 2002, I've been an active member of the Central Islip Fire Department — a volunteer organization of approximately 180 dedicated men and women who protect our community around the clock.
I rose through every rank over two decades of service: Lieutenant for 4 years, Captain for 4 years, and then 7 years serving in chief officer roles — culminating in the highest rank in the department, Chief of the Department, which I held from 2019 to 2021.
My tenure as Chief coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic — one of the most challenging operational periods in the department's history. I drew on my business background to write formal response protocols that kept our members safe in the face of an unknown threat, and leveraged virtual meeting technology to ensure all 180 firefighters stayed informed, connected, and mission-ready throughout the crisis.
Volunteering in the fire service demands the same qualities I bring to my professional life — accountability, calm under pressure, and an absolute dedication to the people depending on you.
United States Navy
In the Field
Contact
Whether you're interested in SONOTEC's ultrasonic solutions, exploring a professional connection, or simply want to reach out — I'm always happy to connect.
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