2024 Engineering Leader Under 40: Matthew Schoendorf, 31

Matthew Schoendorf, 31
Head of Joining Technologies
Brose North America
Auburn Hills, MI

What Makes Matt an Engineering Leader

Matt excels in analyzing technical challenges and implementing solutions in welding. With a profound understanding of welding processes, he exhibits unwavering commitment, a proactive approach, and a collaborative spirit that enhances team performance. As a leader, Matt guides his team to exceptional achievements in a competitive environment, setting multiple technical benchmarks for Brose North America. His dedication to learning and adapting essential skills underscores his drive for success.

Achievements, Advancements & Career-related Industry Contributions

Matt has spearheaded significant advancements in welding technology, including the introduction of new laser welding technologies and innovative fixture designs. His initiatives have led to substantial cost reductions, increased operational stability, and ongoing process improvements across multiple plant locations. Matt continuously explores cutting-edge technologies from various suppliers, challenging conventional practices and driving continuous improvement. He applies his extensive project experience to evaluate global projects, offering tailored solutions that accommodate diverse production volumes and complex designs. Matt’s leadership within the prototype welding group has been instrumental in testing state-of-the-art processes, collaborating closely with quality and design departments globally to streamline manufacturing processes and enhance dimensional clarity. His proactive approach has not only propelled the welding team’s development but also contributed to significant cost savings.

Non-work-related Activities & Hobbies

Matt enjoys home renovations, dog training, and snowboarding. These activities enhance his creativity, communication, and leadership skills.

Interesting Details

An engineering graduate from the University of Michigan, Matt has excelled in the industrial engineering domain at Brose North America, particularly within the welding group. His journey from an engineering role to direct supervision marked a pivotal shift towards leadership, where he navigated diverse team dynamics with determination. Overcoming initial challenges, Matt has emerged as a respected leader, transitioning from leading a small team of industrial engineers to effectively managing a larger team. His tenure has been marked by the demonstration of strong leadership skills and the solidification of his reputation as an influential figure within the organization.

Why Matt Chose This Career

Matt’s career path is driven by a passion for building and innovation, a skill honed since childhood in his woodshop. The furniture he crafted and still uses serves as a testament to this enduring commitment. His fascination with welding stems from its unique blend of science and practical application, allowing him to design adaptable welding cells that require minimal adjustments for diverse projects. This fusion of creativity, scientific rigor, and efficiency encapsulates Matt’s professional ethos.

Original content can be found at Plant Engineering.

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