Meet our Industry Person of the Week, Joe Aeschliman, President of Integrity Pump and Motor.
Q: How did you get started working in your field?
Joe: I got my start in the pump industry as a Design Engineer for a vertical turbine pump manufacturer. It was a hands-on role that gave me immediate exposure to product development, testing, and process improvement. Coming into the role with a background that included welding and mechanical work, I was drawn to the practical side of engineering—solving problems that directly impact performance and reliability. That first position gave me a solid foundation and sparked a long-term interest in pumps and fluid handling systems.
Q: What do you love the most about your job? What are you most proud of?
Joe: What I love most about my job is solving engineering challenges. Whether it’s developing a new product or finding a solution to a unique application, I enjoy the problem-solving process and the impact it has for our customers. I started at Integrity Pump and Motor as Head of Engineering, focusing on new product development and custom projects. That hands-on work is still something I enjoy, but over time, building a team that shares that same passion has become just as rewarding. From leadership to our pump builders, our team is made up of true pump experts who take pride in their work. I’m most proud of the growth we’ve achieved—not just in size, but in the strength of our customer relationships and the reputation we’ve built. We’ve grown by doing right by our customers and delivering solid, reliable solutions. That’s something I take real pride in.
Q: What advice would you give to someone considering this line of work or new to the field?
Joe: Start by getting your hands dirty. No matter what role you’re aiming for in the pump industry—whether it’s engineering, sales, service, or operations—there’s no substitute for real, hands-on experience. In my first job, part of my role was actively machining and building pumps. That time on the shop floor gave me a much deeper understanding of how pumps are built and how design decisions impact manufacturing and performance. Technical knowledge is important, but what really sets people apart in this field is practical experience—knowing how the equipment works, how it’s used, and how to troubleshoot when things don’t go as planned. Whether you’re assembling pumps, testing equipment, or supporting customers in the field, take every chance to learn by doing. It builds confidence, earns respect, and gives you a foundation that will serve you throughout your career.
Connect with Joe on LinkedIn.
THANK YOU, JOE! WE LOOK FORWARD TO KEEPING UP WITH YOU THROUGH THE #PUMPTALK COMMUNITY!