Xcel Products Adds New Product Design Engineer

Employee Spotlight: Dan Hills | Product Design Engineer

Dan Hills was born and raised in Northwest Wisconsin and graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. Dan has 25 years of experience in product design and development, prototyping and management. He’s a certified Solidworks Professional (CSWP), a certified additive manufacturing technician (3-D printing) and a certified manufacturer’s technical representative for UL 48 (electric signs).

Putting Dan’s sterling resume aside, we spoke with him recently to get to know him a little bit better.

How did you end up working at Xcel?

A colleague introduced me to Stephen and his staff as they were looking to start an engineering department within Xcel Products. The more I heard about Xcel and the things they were working on, it sounded like a great place to work and apply my experience and skills.

Speaking of your experience, how have you been able to apply that to your work at Xcel?

We established an engineering department and then developed drafting and design standards. We are also currently developing a new product line, the SOLIX™ Frame System. Additionally, we recently purchased a pair of 3-D printers, allowing me to utilize my experience to set up and maintain an additive manufacturing area, with process development, work-flow management, and material handling, specifically designed for 3-D printing.

What do you like best about working at Xcel?

We have a very nimble, seasoned staff; we rely on each other’s strengths. My favorite part of my position is product development—creating new products and prototyping with the use of the 3-D printer.

Where do you see the future of Xcel’s capabilities going?

As we build our client base and we continue to develop more product lines, the sky is the limit. Everyone is looking for new, innovative ideas and ways to display— and the possibilities seem endless.

What are some of your hobbies outside of work?

I love gardening, fishing and walking.

What’s your dream vacation?

I’d love to take an Alaska cruise.