Jacob Stephan

Background

About Jacob Stephan

From a young age, I’ve always been drawn to building—whether it was constructing treehouses or designing skateboard ramps. This passion for creating naturally led me to pursue a degree in engineering at the University of Akron. I wanted to combine hands-on creation with problem-solving, and engineering seemed like the perfect fit. My first job was as a mechanical drafter. This internship quickly turned into a full-time role where I developed my technical skills and gained experience with CAD design. I then transitioned into design engineering, where I created custom systems for industries like automation and motion control. I thrived on turning client needs into functional, cost-effective designs. As I continued to grow professionally, I transitioned into applications engineering, working closely with clients to understand their needs and design solutions. Whether it was for medical devices, aerospace, or manufacturing, I enjoyed collaborating with both clients and engineering teams to ensure our designs were aligned with their specifications. My career then shifted toward sales engineering and sales management. I wanted to engage more directly with customers and help solve their problems through collaborative, tailored solutions. This role allowed me to leverage my technical expertise while driving sales performance and building strong client relationships. In addition to my career, I’ve built a woodshop where I design and craft custom furniture. This hands-on outlet allows me to blend my engineering skills with creativity. It’s a reminder of how the principles I apply in engineering translate into artistry. I also love golf, where precision and strategy on the course mirror my approach to problem-solving in engineering. At home, my wife and I are building a homestead on 5 acres. We grow gardens, raise animals, and are steadily working toward a sustainable lifestyle. Her support is key to our shared vision, and together, we continue to grow and expand our property. Currently, as a Territory Sales Manager and Applications Engineer, I combine my expertise in sales, engineering, and project management to provide custom solutions. Whether working with linear actuators, lead screws, or automation systems, I help clients in industries like aerospace and medical devices tackle their challenges. The opportunity to create solutions and build relationships with clients continues to drive my passion in this role.