2024 Engineering Leader Under 40: Joshua Heater, 31
Joshua Heater, 31, Proposal Delivery Manager, Concept Systems, Albany, OR
Joshua Heater, 31
Proposal Delivery Manager
Concept Systems
Albany, OR, United States
BS Mechanical Engineering, Oregon State University
What Makes Josh an Engineering Leader
Josh exemplifies engineering excellence across all stages of the project lifecycle. His ability to simplify complex problems earns the trust of the sales team at Concept Systems, while his reliability and positive attitude inspire his engineering colleagues. His growth from a diligent individual contributor to a respected engineering leader has been notable. Beyond his technical expertise, Josh is a trusted mentor and advisor, known for his willingness to listen and collaboratively find solutions. His leadership extends beyond projects, impacting both his team and the broader organization.
Achievements, Advancements & Career-related Industry Contributions
Josh has made significant contributions to Concept’s mechanical engineering department, beginning as the department’s first mechanical engineer. He pioneered the development of Concept’s first robotic product for spraying thin film coatings and the first large-scale modular automated paint system. His work in research and development has established the company’s expertise in C1D1 robotic paint systems. Josh is also dedicated to mentoring junior engineers and supporting the onboarding of new hires, fostering a culture of growth and development within the team. His career has seen a steady progression, including a promotion to Senior Engineer, where he helped develop internal criteria for future engineers seeking career advancement. As an Applications Engineer, he encouraged creativity while ensuring sound engineering and documentation practices. Most recently, Josh was promoted to Interim Proposal Manager, where he continues to lead and inspire his team.
Non-work-related Activities & Hobbies
Over the past year, Josh has volunteered at a middle school multiple times, taking time out of his schedule to discuss engineering and share his robotics expertise with students. His collaborative spirit shines through as he invites coworkers to join him, bringing along a robot to give students a firsthand experience with advanced technology. To make the sessions even more engaging, they program the robot to distribute candy, sparking the students’ interest and curiosity. Josh’s dedication to volunteering and his willingness to share his professional knowledge exemplify his leadership and are an inspiration to his peers.
Interesting Details
Josh serves on the board of the Portland Digital Dabblers, a community organization dedicated to providing high-quality education, workshops, and mentoring for digital artists. They focus on open-source software and fostering a collaborative environment for personal and professional growth. Outside of work, Josh is a passionate soccer fan, supporting the Portland Timbers in the United States and Chelsea Football Club in the Premier League. His enthusiasm for soccer mirrors his dedication to engineering and community involvement, always striving for excellence both on and off the field.
Why Josh Chose This Career
Josh chose this career path to blend his passion for creating and understanding how things work with his technical prowess. He thrives on problem-solving and takes pride in seeing the success of his colleagues and team. Engineering allows him to continuously innovate and make a tangible impact through his work, driving both personal and professional fulfillment.
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