AcquireEngineer Spotlight: Doug Hietpas | Standard Electric Supply Co.

Engineer Spotlight: Doug Hietpas

ByDawson Gebelein

10/21/2020

WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT STANDARD ELECTRIC, AND WHAT DO YOU SPECIALIZE IN? 

I am labeled an Applications Specialist. I specialize in Siemens Automation, Motion Control, Networking, and HMI.

HOW DID YOU BECOME INTERESTED IN ENGINEERING? 

In High School, my strong subjects that I really enjoyed were Math and Physics. This led to my decision to pursue technology and engineering.

WHAT ATTRACTED YOU TO THIS INDUSTRY?

I would say that the significant amount of machinery that is either built here in Wisconsin or that is implemented in Wisconsin industry led me to my interest in Machine control. As far as getting into distribution, it was a natural career procession from Design Engineer, to Programmer, to someone supporting those processes.

WHAT TRAITS DO YOU HAVE THAT HELP YOU IN YOUR ROLE?

I am a good teacher. I can explain topics in multiple ways to get understanding. My ability to listen and not assume really help me to be an effective problem solver.

WHEN YOU'RE WORKING WITH CLIENTS, HOW DO YOU HELP THEM IDENTIFY AND SOLVE THE PROBLEMS THEY'RE FACING?

I start with listening and then discussing solutions... I try not to be the "tell you what to do" guy.

WHAT'S THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU'VE LEARNED WHILE WORKING AT STANDARD ELECTRIC?  

I've learned not to be afraid to make a customer-service based decision. If I am making a solid (in my mind) decision with a focus on customer success, I'm doing the right thing with complete backing of management. 

WHAT KIND OF THINGS DO YOU LIKE TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK?

I enjoy singing and playing guitar. I was the front man for a fun party rock band for 10 years. I am also an actor. I’ve been in a large number of community theater productions. And, finally, I AM SANTA CLAUS. I love my calling to bring joy and happiness to the world as the Jolly Elf.

WHAT IS AN INTERESTING FACT ABOUT YOU THAT MIGHT SURPRISE CO-WORKERS OR FRIENDS?

I have exactly 100 first cousins. 


Standard Electric Supply Co. is a family-owned distributor, built on delivering outstanding service. For over 100 years, Standard Electric has been the best at what they do; delivering top-quality products, outstanding service, and providing value-added services to customers across the Midwest. Visit standardelectricsupply.com to see how Standard Electric can become the solution to your needs.

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