My technology degree provided the fundamental background which prepared me for a successful career. On top of that, my relationship and interface with the school’s faculty taught me how to best apply those skills in my career.
Mark Stidham
Mechanical Engineering Technology '79
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Mark Stidham

Mechanical Engineering Technology '79
President, North American Exhaust Division for Faurecia Exhaust Systems Inc.

Within seven years of his Purdue graduation, Mark Stidham had become a vice president for Atwood Automotive in Rockford, Illinois. While in this position, he helped the company acquire
nine product patents, including one assigned solely to him. Each successive promotion, at Atwood and beyond, has built on his early successes.

Stidham’s ability to improve each division or company he has served has made him a valuable asset. He has overseen cost reductions, improved quality, product launches, sales increases, and profit improvements. His scope of responsibility also has ranged from engineering to marketing to management.

At Faurecia Exhaust Systems, Stidham oversees the operations of eight manufacturing facilities in the United States and Mexico. Profits, sales, and quality have all improved significantly during his five years as division vice president.

Throughout his career, Stidham has volunteered his time with Junior Achievement and Boy Scouts of America. He also is a 27- year member of the Society of Automotive Engineers and served on the Mechanical Engineering Technology Industrial Advisory Board for the College of Technology.

He enjoys traveling with his wife and restoring antique cars.

Stidham and his wife, Cheryl, reside in Sylvania, Ohio. They have two grown children.

This was originally written for the Distinguished Technology Alumni Awards in 2003.