ADPE Spotlight: Chris Schmidt

Meet Chris! Chris Schmidt is a Design Engineering manager at AD Process Equipment. His passion for engineering started when working on cars when he was younger, taking them apart and better understanding how they all work. Chris later graduated from Northern Illinois University with a degree in mechanical engineering with an emphasis in sustainability. Chris joined the ADPE team in 2016 and has progressed through the company as a Design Engineer, Sr. Design Engineer, and currently Design Engineering Manager.

Working as a Design Engineering Manager, Chris oversees the design engineering department, provides input on designs, and builds standards for the department. His team is responsible for providing unique designs to customers, collaborating with cross-functional teams, meeting timelines, providing quality workmanship, etc. When asked what his favorite part of his job is, he said, “Every project is fairly different, so the challenge that comes with finding a solution for each one.” In one word or phrase, he described ADPE as “Driving Towards Excellence.”

Since his time at ADPE, he said the most positive change/growth he has seen is the quality of work we provide our customers, stemming from better training and professional development opportunities. He said, “As the team continues to grow and work cross-functionally, our team members continue to develop.” Chris thinks what sets ADPE apart from other service providers in the industry is our team’s determination and willingness to try challenging projects (and deliver). “We develop personalized relationships with customers and will ensure we hold up our end of the project,” he said.

His favorite parts of being a member of the ADPE team are the people he works with and the challenges that the work provides him. One of his most memorable experiences at ADPE was working on a large project for two years. “This project really touched every department in some way, so it was a great team-building experience. It was challenging, but a rewarding project team to be a part of,” he said. Chris is always eager to see what interesting projects come in the door and is looking forward to building the design engineering department and continuing to improve on standards to help the efficiency of projects.

If you are interested in joining the ADPE team, please visit our careers page.