Engineered Controls provides customers with products and services to create efficient, safe and comfortable building environments. As a leading Honeywell building control technologies contractor, Engineered Controls offers control solutions for commercial HVAC and security systems – including video surveillance and access control, parking systems, lighting control systems, and building indoor air quality. Todd Schmidt is the Branch Manager of the Engineered Controls Lincoln office.
How did you get started in the business? – I was doing electrical PLC controls for Kayton Electric when I met a couple of guys from Engineered Controls. They described to me what their job entailed and I was very interested in what they did as a company. Shortly thereafter, I took a job with Engineered Controls and 16 years later I’m still here.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – Keeping up with the rapid pace of technology changes in the industry. Our industry is a mix of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and information technology all rolled into one.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Establishing a challenging career at a young age and working with a great team here at Engineered Controls.
Tell us a little about your family. – I have been married to my wife, Kristine, for 16 years. We have eight nieces and nephews, and a great niece and great nephew, that we like to spoil every chance we get.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – My dad died at a young age and it made me realize that life is short, and to live each day to the fullest.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – In the summer, I like to get my boat out as much as I can and in the fall I enjoy hunting. A nap in the “Man Cave” is always a plus too.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – I raise cattle in my hometown of O’Neill, NE. I try and go back as often as I can to help work on the farm.
What are you the most proud of? – The opportunity to meet a wide variety of terrific people throughout my career. Also, I truly enjoy working with my team at Engineered Controls. They are all dedicated, hard-working and genuinely great employees to work with.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – Work hard and respect others.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Honest.
If you could have a super power, what would it be? – The ability to be in two places at once.
If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – Farming. I love being in the outdoors working with cattle and in the fields. It’s hard work but it brings out the best in me.
What is your favorite movie? – Any comedy or action movies.
What is your favorite TV show? – Deadliest Catch.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – Romano’s Macaroni Grill or HuHot Mongolian Grill.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – Warren Buffet.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – I can be reached at (402) 434-2110 or by email at tschmidt@engineeredcontrols.com. You may also visit our website at www.engineeredcontrols.com or our sister company, Control Depot’s website at www.controldepotinc.com for more information.