Meet Our People: Chris, Applications Engineer

At Zuken USA, we know that behind every strong solution is a team member with a story worth sharing. This month, we’re highlighting Chris Beck, an Applications Engineer who celebrated his 10th anniversary with Zuken earlier this year. With a background in automotive electronics, wire harness design, and software implementation, Chris brings a well-rounded perspective to his work. He takes pride in solving real customer problems and creating solutions that make a difference. In this spotlight, we’ll explore how his early passion for electronics shaped his career. We’ll also look at a typical day supporting enterprise customers and how he enjoys time outside the office: on the lake, on the golf course, or with a guitar in hand.

From Subwoofers to Software Solutions

As a teenager, Chris’s interest in electronics started early, sparked by installing car stereos and security systems. That hands-on curiosity grew into a career path when he enrolled in the Electrical Engineering Technology program at Purdue University Fort Wayne. After earning his degree, he joined Navistar. There, he spent over 15 years sharpening his skills in wire harness design, 3D modeling, and engineering IT. He eventually moved from hands-on design to developing applications. These custom tools improved workflows and system integration. When the opportunity came to join Zuken, it was a natural next step that aligned well with his technical background and interest in supporting innovative design.

Enabling Success Through Listening and Action

In Chris’s view, customer success starts with one simple principle: listening. He takes the time to understand each customer’s needs, goals, and technical challenges before translating those details into clear, actionable plans. As an Applications Engineer, his work includes more than just implementation. Chris focuses on delivering custom solutions that truly align with the customer’s needs. Whether working with a tier-one supplier or a global OEM, Chris brings a strong mix of technical knowledge, attention to detail, and problem-solving focus to every project.

Inside the Workday Rhythm

A typical day for Chris begins in his home office, where he supports a major automotive customer and their tier-one suppliers through web meetings and ongoing project work. His focus spans everything from software configuration and testing to deployment and refinement, depending on the day’s needs. Some days are spent solving technical challenges, while others involve reviewing feedback, troubleshooting, or identifying ways to improve internal tools.

While much of his work is done independently, Chris stays closely connected to the Professional Services Team through daily collaboration on Microsoft Teams. The team regularly shares knowledge, solves problems together, and contributes to an internal knowledge base to support continuous improvement. Despite working across different time zones and locations, they maintain a strong sense of teamwork through consistent communication. And when the opportunity arises, Chris looks forward to in-person events like Zuken Innovation World and Zuken Tech Tour, where the collaboration continues over shared meals and face-to-face connection.

Tackling Upgrades with Code and Confidence

Of all the projects Chris has worked on at Zuken, the ones that stand out most are the complex enterprise software upgrades for large corporations. These upgrades often involve multi-user E3.Enterprise databases and require a strategic, detail-oriented approach. Chris frequently leverages his programming background to automate upgrade tasks, saving customers time and reducing risk. These projects highlight his ability to bridge engineering and IT, something that has defined his career since day one.

Island Vibes and Lake Life

When he’s not working with customers or supporting his team, Chris enjoys a whole and active life centered around family, music, and the outdoors. He and his wife, Julie, share a love for adventure, often hiking along the West Coast, exploring rivers and waterfalls in national forests, or relaxing on a Caribbean island. Their honeymoon in Jamaica sparked a lasting appreciation for the island lifestyle, and they continue to return to that laid-back vibe whenever they can.

Closer to home, the couple spends time at their seasonal lake cottage on the Lake James chain in Indiana. Their three adult children—Miranda, Jeremy, and Marissa—often visit, and their 15-month-old grandson, Felix, is now experiencing lake life for the first time. Watching him explore the water and enjoy the outdoors has been a highlight of the year.

Music is another creative outlet for Chris. He plays guitar and percussion and is always up for an occasional jam session with friends. He’s also an enthusiastic golfer with a steadily improving swing and has enjoyed playing alongside Zuken colleagues and customers from across the country.

Reflecting on Ten Years at Zuken

With ten years at Zuken USA, Chris has consistently contributed through his technical skills, reliable support, and focus on building effective solutions for our customers. Whether developing custom software, collaborating with teammates, or strengthening long-term client relationships, his work reflects a commitment to quality and professionalism. Outside the office, his creativity and love for family, travel, and music enrich the team dynamic and the strong culture we’re proud to maintain. We’re grateful to have Chris on the Zuken team and look forward to all that’s ahead.

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Follow along as we continue to introduce the people shaping Zuken’s future, one story at a time.

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