Few professionals in engineering design have earned a favorable reputation in such a short period as Angela J. Perez. As the founder and chief executive officer of AJ Mechanical Design LLC in East Chicago, Indiana, she has become a trusted resource for entrepreneurs seeking to bring their visions to fruition. Perez specializes in designing and developing prototypes, and the business community views her as a go-to expert.
For her expertise in mechanical engineering and design, Perez has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Engineers.
A Foundation in Hands-On Training
Perez has six years of experience as an engineer and two years as a business owner. Before launching her company, she developed her skill set in various roles. First, she was involved in advanced manufacturing workforce training. Later, she became a design and development technician and administrative assistant.
Perez earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering at Purdue University Northwest in Hammond, Indiana, where she engaged in hands-on training. The highly motivated student operated power tools, managed design files, built prototypes and handled administrative responsibilities. To date, she credits her collegiate education with equipping her with the tools she now uses in her business.
Perez’s experience spans 3D printing, computer-aided design (CAD), and computer numerical control (CNC) machining. These skills enable her to turn sketches and concepts into tangible products that clients can hold, test, and refine. Whether she is developing small-scale inventions or complex technology requiring mechanical integration, Perez works alongside her clients from concept to prototype, immersing herself in every part of the process.
Trust Drives Every Project
Clients don’t come to Perez for templates or generic blueprints. Instead, they turn to her because she can deliver designs that exceed their expectations. This outcome is possible because Perez begins every project with a thoughtful conversation. She listens to her clients to ensure she understands their vision. From there, she sketches, tests, and refines to produce a real-world prototype.
Perez often works with inventors who are new to product development and need a steady hand to guide the process; this is an area in which she thrives. Currently, she is managing nine simultaneous projects, a workload that requires discipline, consistency, and client trust. Her ability to build that trust is the highlight of her career so far.
Passion for Education and Service
In 2023, Perez was featured in the publication Canvas Rebel for her hard work and entrepreneurial mindset. However, she doesn’t measure success by media fanfare. To her, having a professional and personal impact on the community matters more.
Perez’s volunteer work reflects that mindset. For instance, she works as a volunteer fundraiser for the Purdue Northwest Baja Racing, a student design program associated with the Society of Automotive Engineers. Additionally, she participated as a College of Technology ambassador with STEM on the Road, an outreach program that provides hands-on learning experiences for high school students interested in STEM.
Community Engagement Through Engineering
Education remains central to Perez’s values. Currently, she’s pursuing a master’s degree in industrial engineering technology. Aside from adding to her academic achievements, she plans to expand AJ Mechanical Design and open a commercial space for client meetings.
Perez also has a vision to create a workshop for children and community members interested in design. Meanwhile, she remains focused on collaborating with entrepreneurs and businesses and working with her team to provide high-quality products.
