I’ve been asked this question a number of times, and typically I’ve been vague when giving an answer. But I’ve been asked enough times now that I think it’s time to turn the whole idea into a contest. Who can figure out how I got the nickname Chief?
I’m breaking this down into two categories: 1) the closest to the real story; and 2) the most original submission. For number 1, the prize will be a custom plan for a project of the winner’s choosing, either of a Sketch of the Day, or something the winner has wanted to build, but just hasn’t had the time or patience to figure out dimensions, etc. For number 2, the prize is a Chief’s Shop hat.
I’m giving one hint: It’s not from military service.
Email your responses to chief@chiefs-shop.com, with the subject line “Chief nickname”. I’m running this contest until Oct. 31, and you can submit unlimited guesses.
Good luck, and Make Some Sawdust!
Chief's Shop 
My guess is that you were the mascot for your high school teams and it was an Indian in a head-dress.
you got it in college.
I think that either a nephew, niece or your boys couldn’t say your first name but they said “Chief” instead. Sounds like a good idea to me anyway.
In charge of a working crew, thusly a “crew chief”, then shortened to “chief”, akin to the “boss”.
Named after sports team (Chiefs) KC Chiefs?? Old name for football team..