Across a distinguished career in mechanical design and engineering, Angela J. Perez has demonstrated expertise in designing and developing prototypes. She founded AJ Mechanical Design LLC in 2023 in East Chicago, Indiana, and has held the role of designer there since then. Dedicated to innovation and delivering effective solutions to complex design challenges, Ms. Perez has built a reputation as a reliable go-to professional within the industry.
Ms. Perez’s passion for engineering was sparked at a young age while watching films featuring inventive characters such as Iron Man, and when witnessing the unique creations in movies like “Wallace & Gromit” and “Chicken Run.” These early influences inspired awe and curiosity within her, even before she had access to basic engineering tools or formal instruction. Ms. Perez discovered mechanical engineering in college and connected it with her love of mathematics while learning theoretical concepts. It was during this time that she was also introduced to SolidWorks, an essential computer-aided design (CAD) software that she quickly embraced and mastered.
Prior to founding her own company, Ms. Perez was a design and development technician at Purdue University Northwest for several years, during which she applied her technical knowledge to assist in the creation and refinement of prototypes, honing her skills in mechanical engineering and product development. She also contributed to Purdue University Northwest as an administrative assistant for two years, concurrently with her final years as a design and development technician. She began her professional journey at the institution in 2020, working within the advanced manufacturing workforce training program and gaining foundational experience in modern manufacturing processes and industry-standard tools and technologies.
As Ms. Perez has explored professional opportunities, her academic achievements were key to shaping her career trajectory. She first obtained an associate degree from Ivy Tech Community College, followed by a bachelor’s degree in engineering from Purdue University Northwest and a master’s degree in industrial engineering technology. Further, she is certified as a SolidWorks associate through the SolidWorks Authorized Training Center. Throughout her career, Ms. Perez has been committed to professional growth and community engagement. She is an active member of The National Society of Leadership and Success and 1 Million Cups — organizations that foster leadership development and entrepreneurial collaboration within the business community.
Ms. Perez’s accomplishments have been celebrated, as, most notably, she was named to the Rising 30 Class of 2025 by Conexus Indiana, a networking group connecting industry, education and government leaders across the state of Indiana. Her placement on this prestigious list identifies her as one of the most innovative and exceptional professionals under the age of 30 in Indiana. She credits her success, as still a young adult, to her college education and training equipping her with essential skills, including operating power tools and understanding three-dimensional printing — capabilities that have been integral to her success as a designer and entrepreneur.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Ms. Perez has demonstrated a strong commitment to civic engagement and volunteerism. For several years, she served as an ambassador for the Purdue University Northwest College of Technology’s STEM on the Road program. Through this effort, she has promoted science, technology, engineering and mathematics education within local communities and provided high school students with vital information and support to help them enter the field. Additionally, she contributed as a fundraising volunteer for Purdue NW Baja Racing during the same period and volunteered with the Children’s Ministry for more than five years.
Ms. Perez fills her leisure hours by playing video games, spending time with her nieces and nephews, practicing sketching and reading. Looking to the future, she is eager to continue growing AJ Mechanical Design LLC’s physical commercial presence and capabilities. She also plans to create a workshop where she can showcase engineering principles to children and others, helping them learn through hands-on experience. Though still early on her professional path, Ms. Perez has already displayed an impressive level of technical expertise and a dedication to mentorship, community involvement and continuous learning in her field.