Steve Engelhardt

I am a results-oriented leader dedicated to supporting John Deere products through high-quality technical training that empowers our customers to succeed. I successfully led focused teams to develop award-winning technical content and have managed large-scale projects with up to 32 contributors working toward a common goal. 

While my foundation is built on extensive technical knowledge, I have learned that the people involved are the essential element in any project’s success. By enabling growth and maximizing contributions from diverse, global teams across the John Deere enterprise, I have developed a strong skill set in team management and talent development.

My broad background has enabled me to excel in real-world scenarios involving product launch support, service procedures, parts, special tools, and failure analysis. This experience has allowed 
me to thrive in multiple roles—including customer and stakeholder-facing positions in corporate, 
military, and university settings—demonstrating a unique ability to prioritize clear and fair 
communication, innovative training, accurate content, and a shared vision of success. 

JOHN DEERE EXPERIENCE
Curriculum Architect, Training Technical Specialist, Instructional Designer, Trainer, Developer 
Waterloo, IA Jan. 2013 – Feb. 2025
 Designed and Created JD14/JD18 Marine Engine Overview training
 Gained Enterprise-wide agreement and led development of new Yanmar Engine curriculum
 Led design, development & implementation of new Enterprise Electric Powertrain curriculum
 Resulting in over 15,000 WBT completions and over 400 Live delivery completions
 Negotiated to gain Enterprise-wide agreement of Electric Powertrain needs analysis outcomes 
 Primary Designer and Contributor of India TREM Stage-IV and Stage-V Engine technical training
 Resulting in over 5,000 completions of India market-specific diagnostic training
 Managed Enterprise-wide John Deere Engine Sales and After Sales Training Development 
 Primary Driver of Brazilian MAR-1 Launch Training (OEM & Agricultural Applications)
 Designed and Created comprehensive,173 page, Engine Training Reference Guide
 Resolved conflict regarding Deere Dealer Qualification Assessment issues
 Primary Driver and Contributor to comprehensive Engine Curriculum (WBT,vILT, and ILT)
 Resulting in 25,000+ Technicians reached, with over 175,000 hrs of training completed
 Delivered ILT T3 (Qualify the Qualifier) training for Cummins QSX15 to Global instructors 
 Delivered Cummins QSB4.5 ILT and DLC training to dealer technicians
 Lead Design & Development of Product Launch Support projects- Cummins QSB4.5 & QSX15
 Collaborated with Diagnostic and Serviceability for IT4/FT4 Product Support Technical Training 

EDUCATION
 Engineering in Engine Systems (MEES in process) UofW - Madison, WI 2018-2021 
 Community College Teaching (MS in process) SIU - Carbondale, IL 2006-2007 
 B.S. Automotive Engineering Technology MSU - Mankato, MN 1996-1999