Nic Krause’s passion is helping things grow (people, processes, organizations, and himself). Curiosity catalyzes his thirst for more knowledge and understanding as it relates to our surroundings and what we can do to impact them. Nic believes and lives out his conviction that all people should strive to leave the world and everything they touch in better condition than how they found it; passion, determination, grit, and personal/organizational accountability are what Nic sees as the keys to reaching that end.

Following the completion of his undergraduate degree, Nic went on to complete an MBA in Finance at Rockford University. Shortly after, Nic accepted a position with United Technologies (now Raytheon Technologies) as part of their Space Systems Business Unit, working as an aftermarket repair buyer and a space systems senior buyer.

Seeking out further challenges, Nic decided to enter the commercial heat treating and coatings service provider industry when he accepted a supervisory position in 2015 with J&M Plating. Nic realized his passion for problem solving would be a tremendous asset to support team building, client service, and operational improvement initiatives. Nic continued to advance his career shortly after starting with J&M Plating, moving into progressive quality engineering and continuous improvement management and quality manager positions.

As a result of the quality, service, and operational improvements achieved under Nic’s guidance, Nic was promoted to the position of president in 2021, a position he currently holds.

Nominated by: Can-Eng Furnaces International Limited