After joining Strohm in 2013 as a CAD engineer, Matt has been with the company for the past 11 years, progressing through production line engineering roles before being promoted to team lead - mechanical engineering. In his current role he leads a team of five engineers and one installation coordinator, guiding them through the mechanical design and development of machines used in Strohm’s factory.
As a team lead, Matt oversees the creation and modification of machines, along with the selection and specification of machines from external suppliers. While his role has shifted from doing hands-on engineering work to providing technical direction, Matt finds satisfaction in this transition. "It’s rewarding to now be able to step back from the day-to-day grind and instead focus on providing my team with the resources and guidance they need to succeed," he says.
One of the most rewarding aspects of his job is the opportunity to be the kind of manager he once wished for. "I’ve had both good and bad bosses in the past, and I take pride in always having my team’s back," he explains. "It’s not just about giving orders; it’s about being there when someone on my team needs help with a problem, conflict, or even just improving their work environment. I want to create an atmosphere of trust and autonomy, where my team feels confident making decisions on their own, knowing they have my support if needed."
While Matt enjoys the people side of his job, he acknowledges that the technical challenges are less daunting now compared to his earlier days. "Transitioning into mechanical engineering was tough for me," he admits. " I started with a product design background, which posed some technical challenges but also gave me a unique perspective on engineering. I didn’t have a traditional background in that area, and it was a real learning curve. But now, the technical side feels more familiar, and I’m more focused on guiding my team."
That said, managing the team does come with its own set of challenges. "Balancing tight budgets and resource constraints can be tough, and the unpredictability of working in a growing company definitely keeps things interesting," Matt says. "But I love that aspect. There’s always an underlying sense of optimism, and I’m excited to see where the company will go next.”
For Matt, work is not just about the tasks at hand—it’s about the people he works with and the impact he can have on their careers and well-being. His leadership style is rooted in trust and independence. "I believe in hiring people who are capable and self-sufficient," Matt explains. "Micromanagement just stifles creativity and productivity. I want my team to have the confidence to make informed decisions on their own."
When asked about the future, Matt notes that Strohm is continuing to grow, though the expansion comes with its own challenges. "The company is in a phase of growth, and plans can shift quickly," he says. "That unpredictability makes my role dynamic and keeps me on my toes, but I trust that Strohm will continue to grow in the right direction."
Outside of work, Matt stays creative through woodworking and 3D printing, maintaining a connection to his product design roots. "Lately, I’ve been spending a lot of time renovating my home, which has been a great way to channel my creativity outside of work," he adds.