Meet Joe Bannwarth, a mechanical engineer and project manager at Farris Engineering.
Tell us a little about your business. – Most of our (Farris Engineering, www.farris-usa.com) work is done behind the scenes, providing designs for central plants, generators, air handling systems, electronic power and lighting, and plumbing systems. We are an employee-owned company with additional expertise in fire protection engineering, lighting design, building commissioning services, technology systems design, and life safety systems engineering. Farris Engineering offers these services in a variety of markets including education, healthcare, government, commercial, and industrial. For all our projects, engineers focus on cost, safety, reliability, and visual impact. We listen to our clients’ needs and are dedicated to quality, service, and long-term partnerships. At Farris, we don’t just make buildings function, we “Bring Your Building to Life” through our designs.
How did you get started in the business? – I obtained my college education at South Dakota State University and majored in mechanical engineering. I was exposed to the HVAC side of mechanical engineering during my studies and was offered a position in Phoenix, AZ out of college. I worked in the A/E field in Arizona for four years before returning to the Midwest and joining Farris Engineering.
Tell us a little about your family. – My wife Kimberly and I have a daughter, Annika, and a son, Henry. We have been living in Nebraska for about 13 years and enjoy the Midwest way of life.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – Having children. Raising kids has been rewarding and challenging. It is constantly helping me grow and adjust each day.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – I enjoy spending time with my family, watching sports, and working on the family farm.
Who inspires you? – My dad. He instilled hard work and dedication into his profession. With dedication and hard work, your achievements will be endless.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – “Success doesn’t come to you, you go for it.”
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Dedicated.
If you could have a super power, what would it be? – Time-travel. It would be great to go back in time and possibly in the future.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – The American Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that I am passionate about. Blood donations are needed each and every day. It is gratifying to know that your donation can help others live.
What is your favorite movie? – Tommy Boy starring Chris Farley.
What is your favorite TV show? – None at the moment. Life is busy, so there isn’t much time to watch television.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – (402) 330-5900; jbannwarth@farris-usa.com; www.farris-usa.com.