John Pietras, 34
Project Manager 2
Matrix Technologies
Maumee, OH, United States
What Makes John an Engineering Leader
John exemplifies technical excellence, leadership, and innovation in controls engineering. With nearly a decade of experience, he has led complex automation and infrastructure projects across the manufacturing and chemical industries, consistently delivering results on time and within budget.
He combines cutting-edge technology with practical solutions while mentoring young engineers and advancing digital transformation initiatives. His ability to align technical execution with business strategy sets him apart as a rising leader shaping the future of industrial automation.
Achievements, Advancements & Career-related Industry Contributions
John’s career spans nearly 10 years in controls engineering, automation, and project management. He began by designing and implementing control systems and later advanced to leading multimillion-dollar projects across manufacturing, metals, and chemical industries.
At Matrix Technologies, John manages complex projects involving controls, OT networks, MES, and Industry 4.0 initiatives. He is known for delivering projects on schedule and within budget while mentoring junior engineers and fostering collaboration across teams. In addition, he serves on Matrix’s AI Committee and 401(k) Committee, combining technical expertise with organizational leadership.
Previously, at BASF, John managed capital projects and utilities infrastructure, also serving as a construction manager. Across all roles, he has been recognized for aligning engineering execution with business goals, enhancing efficiency, safety, and data-driven decision-making.
Non-work-related Activities & Hobbies
Over the past year, John has been training for a half marathon and preparing for a full marathon. He views endurance sports as a way to challenge both physical and mental limits, embracing the discipline required to achieve long-term goals.
Running and mountain biking also help him manage stress and maintain focus. These activities mirror his professional mindset—strategic, resilient, and growth-oriented—while reinforcing the value of consistency in reaching ambitious goals.
Interesting Details
An Eagle Scout, John continues to give back to Scouting by mentoring youth and supporting leadership development in his community.
During college, he served as president of the IEEE Toledo Student Branch, where he organized technical workshops and industry outreach programs. These experiences highlight his lifelong commitment to service, education, and developing future leaders both inside and outside the engineering profession.
Why John Chose This Career
John chose this career to bridge the gap between innovation and impact. For him, controls engineering is where problem-solving meets purpose. From automating legacy systems to leading multidisciplinary project teams, his mission is to deliver smarter, safer, and more sustainable solutions.
He values the challenges of this field, which push him to evolve daily, lead with vision, and deliver results that matter. For John, it’s not just about building systems—it’s about building the future of industries that support communities worldwide.
