When Brad Hitselberger, 31, first left college, he wasn’t quite sure what to do with his newly acquired engineering degree. “I knew I wanted to utilize my skill set but also be a part of an industry that makes for a fulfilling and fun career. My first role out of college was in a different sector and I wasn’t finding much enjoyment in it,” he said. Not long after this, Hitselberger happened to find himself in the water and pump industry and enjoyed it so much that he’s still there today.
As for what Hitselberger finds so interesting about his job, it’s about being an asset to other water professionals. “If you’re on the municipal side of the industry, you understand just how hard the operators and day-to-day water and wastewater people work. They make our communities thrive by doing the tasks that not a lot of others are willing to do. It’s a great feeling to contribute as much as I can to help them out and be able to provide solutions or education that will allow them to do their job or task easier,” he said. Additionally, Hitselberger touched on the fact that he truly does learn something new every day despite having been in the industry for over seven years.
INDUSTRIAL
FLOW SOLUTIONS
Given that Hitselberger did not necessarily expect what his future career would be back in college, there are some things he wishes he’d known prior to entering the industry. “I wish I understood the world from my customers’ point of view before getting into the industry. You need to go out to see and understand from their point of view to inform your point of view. I am fortunate that the roles I’ve had in the industry have allowed me to do that.”
In terms of what he’s proudest of accomplishing over the course of his career, Hitselberger spoke about innovation. “I am super proud to be a part of a product and group that is helping change a lot of how the industry thinks. We’ve been able to solve problems with innovative products by doing things a different way. As a team at Industrial Flow Solutions, we’ve been able to save time and money for communities and taxpayers, which is something I am very proud of.”
What advice would you give to students considering a career in this industry or newcomers to the workforce?
One of the best pieces of advice I can give to anyone in this industry is to be authentic and be curious. The sky is the limit if you combine both of those with a passion in this industry.
How do you typically spend your time outside of work?
I live in North Carolina and enjoy all the outdoors it provides from lakes to the mountains and all the way to the beach! Hopefully one day I’ll be able to check off a lot of state parks from my bucket list too.
What’s one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?
I never missed a Carolina Panthers home football game until I went to college. We’ve seen better days, but I am still a die-hard fan!