Ionic Automation’s team has incredible depth and breadth of experience and we’re thrilled to start introducing you! First up, we have our Mechanical Engineering Manager, Doug Rooke. Doug is passionate about designing innovative, robust automation solutions, and enjoys spending time with his family and two dogs.
Name: Doug Rooke
Title: Mechanical Engineering Manager
Ionic Automation Tenure: 10 years
How did you find your way into the automation industry?
I found my way into the automation industry right after graduation. Seeing my first automated assembly line in action was a turning point – I was hooked immediately. I’ve always been drawn to fast-paced environments and the constant variety this field offers. Working closely with customers and vendors, and side-by-side with toolmakers, the controls designers, and programmers, became the true foundation of my education in the industry. It sparked a commitment to lifelong learning that still drives me today.
What’s the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is the variety; no two days are ever the same because every project brings a fresh set of challenges to solve. But what really makes it rewarding is working alongside a group of talented people, each bringing their own perspective, to shape a solution none of us could have created on our own. It’s always rewarding when the pieces fall into place and the team lands on a strong solution.
What do you think sets Ionic Automation apart?
What sets Ionic Automation apart is our commitment to collaboration – both with our customers and within our own team. We involve customers early in the engineering process and stay closely aligned throughout the entire project, ensuring they walk away not just with what they asked for, but with what they truly need. Internally, we take the same approach by bringing all stakeholders into the conversation as early as possible. This creates clarity, reduces friction, and leads to solutions that are stronger, smarter, and built with shared ownership.
Connect with Doug on LinkedIn.
Interested in joining the Ionic Automation team? Check out our careers page!
