Jacob Kaplan, 31
Engineering Manager
Continental
Lincoln, NE, United States
BS Aerospace Engineering, University of Arizona

What Makes Jake an Engineering Leader

Jake has taken the lead in implementing new capital investments and spearheading process improvements that significantly reduce waste and enhance efficiency throughout Continental. Jake excels at recognizing and solving problems typically encountered in projects by carefully laying out a project roadmap and consulting experts in various fields. With a strong background in product development, he places a high emphasis on customer needs, particularly when related to new products and quality, making him a well-rounded leader in the engineering space.

Achievements, Advancements & Career-related Industry Contributions

Jake began his career at Continental as an R&D and Tooling Engineer before transitioning to the Plant Process Engineering team, where he quickly took on the responsibility of managing the new group. His success in this role led to an increase in his responsibilities, and he now manages both the Plant Process Engineering and Plant Manufacturing Engineering teams. While part of the R&D team, Jake earned several patents, with a few more still under review. The Plant Process Engineering team initially had only two members when Jake joined. Under his leadership, the effectiveness and impact of the group grew, leading to its expansion to seven members. His ability to drive growth and innovation within the plant underscores his significant contributions to the industry.

Non-work-related Activities & Hobbies

Jake is passionate about maintaining several large saltwater reef aquariums at home, a hobby that has created a special bond with his autistic son, who has a deep fascination with undersea life. Jake also enjoys the technical aspects of this hobby, particularly the equipment and chemistry involved, which align with his engineering mindset.

Interesting Details

While in college, Jake earned his private pilot’s license, showcasing his dedication to mastering complex skills. Additionally, he was the captain of the Arizona Shotgun Team, highlighting his leadership qualities and competitive spirit.

Why Jake Chose This Career

Jake began his career at a large aerospace company immediately after college, where he enjoyed working on significant projects involving cutting-edge technology. However, he discovered a deeper passion for manufacturing and process engineering. At Continental, Jake has had the opportunity to work with a diverse range of customers and projects, allowing him to combine hands-on engineering with collaboration with plant operators and floor supervisors. He finds great satisfaction in seeing his and his team’s designs put into immediate action, making a significant impact on the plant’s performance. This ability to witness the tangible results of his work fuels his passion for his career in engineering.

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