Chris Carpenter, PE, grew up in eastern Oregon and spent much of his spare time fixing or making things, so he was destined for a career in engineering. Oregon State University was a logical choice given the reputation and wide range of engineering disciplines. The coursework created a strong knowledge foundation, and relationships with several professors provided the inspiration that launched his career. Carpenter is now the Vice President of Innovation and Technology for the ESCO division of Weir headquartered in Portland, Oregon. Weir ESCO creates premium high-strength, wear-resistant steel products for the global mining and construction markets. During his 35 years at ESCO, he has held a variety of technical and leadership roles.
His current role is focused on developing disruptive digital and automation technology to create new and expanded business opportunities. Reflecting on his learning while working through the Mechanical Engineering program, the most memorable times were spent in the workshops making parts and in the labs running tests. Chris has taken these fundamentals and with a world class team created a ‘learning laboratory’ referred to as the Hank Swigert Center for Innovation at the divisional headquarters in Portland. Chris has been awarded nearly 40 patents so far. His contributions have pushed the boundaries of product innovation, developing technologies and systems that have expanded the company’s position as a market leader. He is proud of helping to create a thriving engineering culture focused on learning and collaboration, and has enjoyed being part of a global team working together to solve some very challenging problems.
Carpenter has admired the efforts that OSU’s College of Engineering has made to create a more diverse environment, through their recruiting practices and internal programs. He was inspired by this work and saw an opportunity within ESCO to assist in the creation of an affinity group for LGBTQ+ employees that he is now supporting as an executive sponsor. Chris also serves on the Dean’s Leadership Council for Oregon State University College of Engineering, the Dean’s Executive Council for Portland State University College of Engineering, and the Board of Trustees for Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI). Carpenter and his wife live in Hillsboro and have 3 children - two of whom are Oregon State engineering graduates.
Degrees
- B.S. Electrical and Electronics Engineering, 1985