Charles Szpara

Business Technical Services Manager
Bridgestone Aircraft Tires

Charles Szpara is currently the technical services manager at Bridgestone Aircraft Tires (USA), Inc.  He graduated from the University of Buffalo with a B.S. in Chemical Engineering.  Upon completion of his undergraduate degree, he began his career in engineering at Bridgestone Americas in product development. 

When working in product development, Szpara’s primary focus was on development of tire reinforcement materials, which included textiles and steel products.  His job was to manage projects from the early development stage all the way through to production, and to address any quality concerns relating to these materials.  During his tenure in product development, Szpara had continued with his thirst for knowledge by pursuing Six Sigma Black Belt and Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, and an M.B.A.  

Szpara then began to work as an aircraft tire field service engineer.  His responsibilities included analysis of rejection rates and performance to identify shifts in product quality and changes in market conditions, which prepared him for his current position. 

Now, as technical services manager, he is responsible for technical representation for Bridgestone Aircraft Tires in North and South America.  He participates on the Aircraft Tire and Rim Standards Subcommittee, and acts as the secretary for SAE International’s Aircraft Tires Committee.

Charles advises future engineers to "Focus not on the failures of yesterday but on the successes of tomorrow.  And keep yourself motivated."