MALISKO - Key Persons


Ben Meise

Job Titles:
  • Senior Automation Controls Engineer
Growing up watching the TV show "How It's Made", Ben developed an interest in automation. After graduating from Colorado State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Chemical and Biological Engineering and a minor in Environmental Engineering, Ben jumped right in to a career in process control and automation. Passionate about elegant and easy-to-read code and developing screens that address client's everyday issues, he enjoys each unique project and system he works on. What He Likes About Malisko "I like the variety of projects I get to work on with Malisko. Every plant/client does automation differently, and I enjoy diving into each project. I've really enjoyed working on mixer startups. One day I'm on-site troubleshooting issues, the next I'm in the office developing screens."

Brett Mahanna

Job Titles:
  • Automation Controls Engineer
Growing up, the show How It's Made helped to grow Brett's curiosity about how different things happen in facilities to produce the things we use everyday. He knew he wanted to be a part of that process. So Brett pursued his Bachelors of Science in Electrical Engineering at Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville, then took a position at Malisko upon graduation. Since joining Malisko, Brett has found he enjoys tackling the different challenges that each job has and leaving a finished site with a working finished product and a happy customer. What He Likes About Malisko "I like the variety of different process applications that Malisko handles. You can do and see a little bit of everything and being part of the "behind the scene" is a great feeling."

Briana Chamberlain

Job Titles:
  • Senior Automation Controls Engineer & Team Lead
After graduating from Colorado State University with a Bachelors of Science in Chemical and Biological Engineering, Briana knew automation was the right career path for her. She also has a minor in Spanish. While still in school, Briana was able to design HMI screen and work on PLC programming for a nationally known micro-brewery as well work on the Colorado State University Brewery project. Since graduating, she enjoys working with clients to develop screens and programming that allow them to work more efficiently and with fewer frustrations. The variety of projects and the industries in which she's working makes every day exciting. Briana is a member of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) and the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE). What She Likes About Malisko "Being a systems engineer is pretty awesome because we directly contribute to the ‘magic' behind an entire processing plant. My favorite aspect of the automation industry is the ever changing challenges. I love working for Malisko because they are a company whose passion is evident in all they do and the opportunities they provide are endless. From the variety of manufacturing industries they serve, to the personal and professional growth they support, Malisko's commitment to their clients and employees is outstanding."

Carl Hill

Job Titles:
  • Senior Automation Controls Engineer
With 10+ years working in automation, Carl still works every day to design a system that will make a client say "wow". After graduating from Ranken Technical College with a degree in Control Systems Technology, Carl went straight in to working with PLCs, HMIs, Industrial Networks and process design. He enjoys learning each client's unique needs and designing a system to meet those needs. What He Likes About Malisko

Carlos Rosado

Job Titles:
  • Senior Automation Controls Engineer
Since graduating Cum Laude from Ranken Technical College, Carlos has spent nearly 10 years in the role of "experienced outsider" to present unique, yet smart solutions to address client's needs. He appreciates tackling challenging problems and coming up with solutions that may be thought of as "outside the box". What He Likes About Malisko

Corey Schoff

Job Titles:
  • Senior Network Security Engineer & Team Lead
After graduating from University of Wisconsin-Stout, where he graduated with his Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Management with a minor in Project management, Corey started his career in networking. With his love for networking and technology, specifically how it helps many parts of a business work better together, he works with clients to connect the IT and OT systems to drive business needs. Corey is passionate about helping clients see IT and networking as more than just a means to an end but a tool to open up new opportunities across the business. All while keeping a focus on security, which is more important than ever before in IT. Corey is also a Cisco Certified Network Associate(CCNA).

Dan Dennett

Job Titles:
  • Senior Automation Controls Engineer & Team Lead
Dan immediately changed his major the day he witnessed a demo from the Computer Systems Technology Instructor at Ranken Technical College. The concept of programming and running an entire plant from a computer/PLC motivated him to complete his Associates Degree in Technology. Now with over 12 years working with control systems, Dan continues to enjoy the variety of projects and industries he works with. His goal is to exceed every client's expectations with a dependable control system that meets their precise needs. What He Likes About Malisko

Dan Malyszko - VP

Job Titles:
  • Vice President
After graduating from Colorado State University with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Dan chose to work in manufacturing automation because of his fascination with helping make everyday products for the greater good. Dan enjoys assembling and working with diverse project teams who work together to make a positive, lasting impact for each client. Dan is also passionate about delivering value to clients beyond plant floor control, specifically with Industrial IT and helping clients address their Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) initiatives. Dan currently is a member of the Master Brewers Association of the Americas, The Brewers Association, and is a member on the Colorado State University Industry Advisory Board for the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Department of Health and Human Sciences - Fermentation Science. What He Likes About Malisko "The diversity of talent and unique perspectives our team members bring. When we assemble a project team, I'm not only impressed by our technical depth, but also the level of experience our people have. We have people who have worked in production, have run IT departments, have supervised maintenance technicians, not to mention all of the complex systems they all have delivered over the years. Having confidence in our team for me personally makes the job very satisfying."

Dave Horn

Job Titles:
  • Automation Solutions Consultant
With a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from University of Missouri-Columbia, working towards a Masters of Business Administration from Rockhurst University, and previously having a Professional Engineering Licence, Dave Horn is able to help clients while understanding their business from many different aspects. Dave has been working with System Integrators for more than 10 years and continues because of the limitless opportunities in the industry. As an Automation Solutions Consultant, he enjoys working with people, problem solving, and creative thinking. He delivers solutions to clients that result in increased quality, faster throughput, safer operations, and at a greater value/return on investment. Favorite Quote "It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat." - Theodore Roosevelt

Dirk Disper

Job Titles:
  • Director of Sales & Business Development
After nearly 30 years of working for food & beverage manufacturers, Dirk made the jump to the system integrator side. As Director of Sales & Business Development at Malisko, Dirk works closely with clients and engineers to deliver first-class manufacturing solutions. What He Likes About Malisko

Doug Basler

Job Titles:
  • Automation Controls Engineer
After taking PLC courses at Missouri University of Science and Technology, Doug found the field of automation and controls to be very engaging and rewarding. After obtaining his Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Doug joined Malisko first as an Intern then as a full-time employee. Doug strives to provide reliable solutions while also being efficient with resources to clients. He primarily delivers solutions involving HMI displays and design, as well as PLC programming ranging from troubleshooting to new process development. What He Likes About Malisko "I enjoy the variety of processes that I am able to witness and work on, as well as the wide variety of people that I collaborate with while working on these various systems."

Emily Pagel

Job Titles:
  • Automation Solutions Consultant
With her desire to evolve industrial manufacturing to its highest potential resulting in higher quality products/services to consumers, Emily Pagel pursued her Bachelor of Science in Industrial Manufacturing and Systems Engineering from University of Missouri. In her time at University of Missouri, she studied the optimization of manufacturing processes/systems, which provides a solid foundation for helping Malisko clients find system solutions that result in improved equipment efficiency and increased throughput.

Garrett Day

Job Titles:
  • Senior Automation Controls Engineer
As a fan of the TV Show "How It's Made", Garrett pursued a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Colorado State University. He also minored in Business and German. His main goal when working on projects is to exceed client expectations. What He Likes About Malisko

Greg Hamler

Job Titles:
  • Internal IT Support Specialist
Greg earned his Associates Degree from Chippewa Valley Technical College in the IT-Network Specialist program and Bachelor of Science in Information Communication Technology from University of Wisconsin-Stout. Prior to joining Malisko, Greg supported a manufacturing environment where he assisted team members at remote warehouses. Now Greg supports the entire Malisko team, across all locations, with their technology and networking needs.

Jacob Jiskra

Job Titles:
  • Network Security Engineer
Growing up with family members that worked in technology and support, Jacob knew networking was what he wanted to do for a career. His education from Chippewa Valley Technical College provided him with many hands-on courses that only increased his desire to work with technology as a career. Now as an IT support specialist at Malisko, Jacob is passionate about using his skills and knowledge to help people use the technology Malisko offers. What He Likes About Malisko

Jake Bottari

Job Titles:
  • Automation Controls Engineer
While completing his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology and minor in Industrial Robotics from Purdue University, Jake was encouraged to by a professor to pursue his career in controls. Rather than waiting until after graduation to start his career, Jake took on his first controls-related job during his sophomore year at Purdue. He began working with electrical distribution, then continued as an electrical engineer and finally a controls engineer…all before graduating. While with Malisko, Jake enjoys putting together a system from concept to visualization, and especially likes screen design. Favorite Quote "Do not go gentle into that good night. Rage, rage against the dying of the light." - Dylan Thomas What He Likes About Malisko "The variety, the constant learning, and the types of projects are what I love about the position."

Jason Kampwerth

Job Titles:
  • Automation Controls Engineer
After graduating from Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville with a Bachelors in Electrical Engineering, Jason has spent 12+ years thriving as a team player with the number one goal being making the customer happy. He enjoys the challenges that come with the variety of projects and industries he works with. What He Likes About Malisko "I enjoy working in the controls industry because every project has a new set of challenges. This allows me to learn new skills so that I am always learning something new."

Jess Freels - President

Job Titles:
  • President
Jess, former Executive Vice President of PREMIER System Integrators, Inc. comes to Malisko with over 20 years of experience with leadership, operations, business development, and succession management. The appointment is a clear reflection of Malisko's pursuits: ready to take on the future after another strong year of growth and successful customer experiences.

Jim Gauch

Job Titles:
  • Director of Operations & Lead Engineer - Wisconsin
After receiving his Associates Degree in Control System Technologies from Ranken Technical College, Jim dove straight in to designing robust plant control systems for clients. His daily goal is to make each client's control system more efficient and reliable so that each product comes out to specification after his work is complete. Today, he leads a team in Malisko's Wisconsin office while continuing to contribute to projects.

John Brueggeman

Job Titles:
  • Senior Automation Controls Engineer
Why He Likes Working at Malisko "I love working as an Programmer/Integrator at Malisko Engineering. Each project brings unique problems for me to solve, or obstacles to overcome. The phases of a project keep things different from week to week, which is important for me as a person, and at the end of the project, I get to travel to the client and see exactly where the project I have built is going to be run. I get to see new places and meet new people, and then I get to solve their problems. The whole process is very gratifying."

John Martin

Job Titles:
  • Automation Controls Engineer
With a life-long interest in manufacturing and learning how things are made, John pursued an Associate's Degree in Electromechanical Technology. His education directly translated in to a career in engineering and design, instrumentation, automation controls and PLC/HMI programming. John enjoys solving client issues by deeply analyzing hardware, software, or technology to then demonstrate its capabilities to the client. Why He Likes Working at Malisko

Kayla Grogan

Job Titles:
  • Automation Controls Engineer
Kayla Grogan joined our team after earning her Bachelors of Science in Chemical Engineering, with a minor in Chemistry, from Missouri University of Science and Technology. Kayla enjoys the variety of industries and clients she gets to work with on a daily basis. She also enjoys getting the opportunity to help people and implement improvements that make their jobs easier and more efficient. Why She Likes Working at Malisko "I love the Malisko team. The environment here is fantastic. Everyone is super helpful, hardworking and has a great attitude."

Kevin Long

Job Titles:
  • Systems Designer
After obtaining an Associate Degree in Applies Electrical Technologies from Vatterott College, Kevin spent many years as a field installer for electrical control systems. He eventually moved to working with AutoCAD to assist with panel designs. Kevin enjoys visiting client locations and working hands-on directly with clients. His goal is always to provide a solution with limited mistakes. Why He Likes Working at Malisko "Working at Malisko is a team environment. We work as a group and our successes and or failures are as a group. In most places I have worked it is every man for themselves but here it is a true Team Effort."

Kyle Moore

Job Titles:
  • Senior Automation Controls Engineer & Team Lead
With the desire to work with his hands, Kyle originally went to school to be an electrical lineman. The risk involved in that career, however, lead him to switch fields to electrical design. Having worked 11+ years providing the best quality work for customers, Kyle enjoys the opportunity to continue to work in a hands-on career, without the risk of "getting fried on poles". Why He Likes Working at Malisko

Lauren Bostrom

Job Titles:
  • Marketing & Communications Leader
After graduating Magna Cum Laude from Colorado State University with a Bachelor's of Science in Business Administration, Lauren has spent nearly 15 years in marketing leadership roles in both business-to-consumer and business-to-business industries. Enjoying the variety that comes with marketing roles, Lauren has had the opportunity to lead marketing efforts and activities including branding, direct response, web marketing, demand generation, graphic design, and customer relationship management. Her goal is to keep consistent messaging to drive brand equity and positive experiences for clients. Why She Likes Working at Malisko "I love working at Malisko because I have a variety of roles and responsibilities. My day is never the same, which keeps my job interesting."

Lee Kottke

Job Titles:
  • Network Security Engineer
Lee has always loved computers and networking, especially when it comes to cyber security. Which is why he obtained his Bachelor of Science in Computer Networking and Information Technology from University of Wisconsin-Stout. During his time at college, Lee received a sponsorship from the Department of Defense to work on a research team developing a zero-trust, defense-in-depth Smart Manufacturing network. As a part of the Malisko team, Lee most enjoys the challenges and puzzles that come with cyber security and IIoT device work.

Mark Orr

Job Titles:
  • Automation Controls Engineer
While growing up, Mark saw his Dad enjoy working with technology and systems. After graduating with a dual Associate Degree for Control System Technologies and Electrical Automation Technologies, Mark joined the Malisko team. He enjoys working on projects for clients from start to finish. Why He Likes Working at Malisko

Mary Bergjans

Job Titles:
  • Director of Human Resources & Administration
With more than 20 years' experience in Human Resources, Mary is the ultimate professional when it comes to supporting and strengthening employees at Malisko Engineering, Inc. She appreciates working with leadership teams to shape company culture that focuses on employees, quality results and performance ultimately leading to client satisfaction. Mary also enjoys collaborating with employees and leaders to ensure a high level of job satisfaction of all team members. Why She Likes Working at Malisko

Matt Scott

Job Titles:
  • Director of Mentorship & Lead Engineer
A deep interest in technology combined with a lifelong curiosity of how things work led Matt to pursue a career in automation by first obtaining his Associates Degree from esteemed technical college Ranken Tech. Matt's major focus with every project he works on is to make the client's life easier. He works hard to provide clients confidence that they are getting great service at a reasonable price. Through direct experience in many fields, Matt has developed an understanding that the importance of continued technical skill improvement is just as important and client relationships and company culture. As Director of Mentorship, Matt makes it a priority help Malisko Engineering continue to grow while continuing to deliver service with a personal touch. The Malisko culture places employee and client satisfaction at the top, an integral a part of every project. Why He Likes Working at Malisko "As Director of the Mentorship Program I get to spread not only learning opportunities to keep us up to date, but also assure that the "soft" aspects of what sets Malisko apart as both a service provider and employer remains close to what it was 15+ years ago when I started." Favorite Quote "In three words I can sum up everything I've learned about life: it goes on…" - Robert Frost

Nancy Lange - COO, Founder

Job Titles:
  • Chief Operating Officer
  • Co - Founder
With a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Marketing & Finance from Drury University, Nancy started her career in banking, insurance, and underwriting sales. Her time working in these industries provided her a broad base of key skills for managing a small business successfully. Nancy has supported and grown Malisko Engineering to be recognized as a reliable and trusted System Integrator. Why She Likes Working at Malisko

Plant Floor

Job Titles:
  • Control & Process

Seger Petersen

Job Titles:
  • Automation Controls Engineer
Seger Petersen joined the Malisko team after completing his Associate Degree in Electrical Engineering Technology from Madison Area Technical College. He chose a career in systems integration due to the variety of projects and work. He enjoys the enjoy the challenges of troubleshooting and integrating smaller systems into a larger system that runs smoothly. Favorite Quote "Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game." - Babe Ruth What He Likes About Malisko "The people I get to work with!"

Shreyas Bhandare

Job Titles:
  • Automation Controls Engineer
After graduating with a Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Pune, India, Shreyas came to the United States to pursue his Master's Degree in Chemical Engineering at Missouri University of Science and Technology. During this time, he enrolled in a multi-disciplinary course called "Plant-wide Process Control" which sparked his interest in the field of Process Control and Automation. He realized that being a chemical engineer, he could understand the process better which would be useful to design and implement controls. Why He Likes Working at Malisko "I enjoy that every project is different and a challenge on it's own. Working in the field of Process Control and Automation gives me an opportunity to learn new things and gives me a sense of satisfaction when I am a part of successful projects. I think that working at Malisko will provide me amazing learning opportunities and build my expertise in the field of Automation."

Steve Hutchens

Job Titles:
  • Director of Integration
While studying at Ranken Technical College, Steve became interested in systems integration and completed his Associates Degree in Control System Technology. With 15+ years' experience in the field, Steve can take big problems in complex systems and focus on all the parts individually to solve the issues. As a team leader, he enjoys helping his team succeed together, but also help individuals achieve their own goals. Why He Likes Working at Malisko

Steve Malyszko - CEO

Job Titles:
  • Chief Executive Officer
Fueled by "a fascination with electricity", Steve has always gravitated towards science and math which led to a career in Electrical Engineering. After receiving both a Bachelor's of Science and Masters of Science in Electrical Engineering from Colorado State University, he landed his first job with Ralston Purina in St. Louis, as the company's first Control System Engineer. He later went on to work for another company that specialized in manufacturing automation systems. In 1993, Steve and his wife, Nancy, realized he could take his passionate drive, management experiences and technical know-how to form what is now Malisko Engineering, Inc. Along with Nancy, Steve has built Malisko with quality and commitment to the client, as well as his team members, in mind. Steve is a Registered Professional Engineer in Missouri, Colorado, Wisconsin, Nebraska and Texas and is a member is NSPE, MSPE, ISPE, ISA and NFPA. Why He Likes Working at Malisko

Steve Schneebeli

Job Titles:
  • Senior Director of Engineering
Malisko's third employee and IEEE member since college, Steve is a master of overall system architecture. Steve graduated from Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. He's passionate about working on diverse and challenging projects while delivering a quality product to every client he works with. Why He Likes Working at Malisko

Tavo Diaz-Granados

Job Titles:
  • Senior Automation Controls Engineer
After graduating from Washington University in St. Louis with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering with a Minor in Computer Science, Tavo has spent the last 20+ years enjoying the variety of work when it comes to automation. His passion for the field shows in his many certifications he's pursued over the years, including but not limited to, FactoryTalk Historian, Mead Johnson Overview of Computerized System Validation, Intermediate Applications of SQL Reporting Services, and Intermediate Applications of ASP.NET. Why He Likes Working at Malisko

Thaddeus Anson

Job Titles:
  • Senior Automation Controls Engineer
After receiving his Bachelors of Science in Mechanical Engineering from University of Colorado - Boulder, Thaddeus went on to receive his Master's Degree from University of Washington in Dynamics and Advanced Control Theory. He was introduced to industrial controls in his early career while working for an OEM building custom robotic machinery. Now working on industrial process control systems, Thaddeus enjoys working and learning in a constantly evolving industry where he can create novel solutions for each client's needs. Why He Likes Working at Malisko "I like the small company atmosphere at Malisko Engineering. We are a very collaborative bunch and its fun to constantly bounce ideas off of each other. This is especially useful because we are all constantly learning about new processes or equipment and how to apply our skills to program them as desired."

Tim Garnett

Job Titles:
  • Senior Automation Controls Engineer
A self-proclaimed "born engineer", Tim completed his Bachelor of Science in Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering at University of Missouri - Columbia. Tim has been efficient in problem solving, programming and designing systems for nearly 10 years. He enjoys both designing new systems from the ground up and working to improve existing systems. Tim's goal for each project he works on is to deliver an end product that is very clear to understand for a first-time user, and for maintenance to troubleshoot in the future. Why He Likes Working at Malisko

Tom Lee

Job Titles:
  • Senior Automation Controls Engineer
While attending the University of Missouri - St. Louis pursuing his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Tom had the opportunity to work on a water purification project which introduced him to automation with PLCs. He enjoyed the project so much, he decided to pursue a career in automation. Tom enjoys the opportunity to learn and work with different technologies and processes. Why He Likes Working at Malisko