As the Accounting Director for Hanley Flight & Zimmerman, I bring 20 years of accounting experience to the company. I oversee all financial aspects of the business, from billing and payroll to planning and forecasting. During my career, among other things, I spent many years at a public accounting firm preparing tax returns and becoming familiar with the accounting operations of various businesses. I also worked as part of a consulting team for a publicly traded company during a post-merger integration.
Archives: Team Members
Kaitlyn A. Nordmeyer, BSBME
Before joining the HFZ team, I studied biomedical engineering at Marquette University. While at Marquette, I worked on several design projects focused on programming systems to help monitor patient vitals as well as the implementation of different image processing techniques. I also worked at Marquette Energy Analytics for two years as a data analyst working with client data sets and where I helped improve automation in different company processes. Through these experiences with innovation, I gained first-hand experience with patents in industry.
Working at HFZ allows me to work with a variety of cutting-edge technologies. This work enables me to help provide other engineers the ability to continue innovating through our protection of their intellectual property.
Stephanie L. Chin, BSBME
Before joining the HFZ team, I studied Biomedical Engineering at Case Western Reserve University with minors in Computer Science and Bioethics. During this time, I worked in a lab developing a rapid, noninvasive screening procedure for hemodialysis patients using digital analysis of blood flow sounds to determine the location and severity of stenosis. I assisted in creating a benchtop test using vascular stenosis phantoms with various levels of narrowing in order to determine a spectral feature of blood flow sounds that correctly predicts the location and severity of stenosis. I was introduced to the field of intellectual property before I disclosed the results of my tests at an IEEE conference. Working at HFZ as a Patent Engineer has solidified my interest in intellectual property prosecution while allowing me to maintain my technical background.
Sean L. Nugent, BSME
Before joining HFZ, I studied Mechanical Engineering at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. While studying at the University of Illinois, I worked with mechanical systems relating to wastewater treatment and power production as a Mechanical Engineering Intern at the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago. I became interested in intellectual property law while working as a Patent Engineer Intern at HFZ. Currently, I am a law student in the evening division of the DePaul University College of Law.
Through these experiences, I have gained a passion for engineering, intellectual property, and patent prosecution that I apply to my work with clients and attorneys every day at HFZ.
Sophia P. Pilipchuk, Ph.D BME, MSBME, BSBME
Having over 10 years of experience working with engineers and scientists in university-based research laboratories, I appreciate the effort and dedication that goes into the development and validation of novel technologies. As a doctoral student, I authored and co-authored research and review articles in Advanced Healthcare Materials, Dental Materials, and Journal of Biomedical Materials Research, obtaining substantial practice in the communication of novel concepts. I also worked as a Tech Transfer Fellow at the University of Michigan Office of Technology Transfer (OTT)—evaluating a wide range of invention disclosures, assessing prior art, drafting marketing abstracts, and identifying potential licensees—which significantly strengthened my interest in patent law. After completing a doctoral thesis, I worked with engineers and surgeons as a Biomedical Innovation Fellow in UM’s Pediatric Surgery Section to identify medical device needs through clinical immersion. This process inspired design and development of new product solutions to fulfill the needs and expectations of the Michigan Pediatric Device Consortium (MPED) program. This work expanded my knowledge of medical device technologies and commercialization strategies.
At HFZ, I work together with patent attorneys and patent engineers to help clients secure protection for their innovative ideas and maximize the economic value of their patents. At HFZ, I can utilize my previous experiences to help advocate for inventors and assist in securing the full extent of intellectual property protection to which they are entitled.
C. Taylor Grote, BSEE
Prior to joining the HFZ team, I studied Electrical Engineering Technology at Purdue University. Project and design work at Purdue included developing embedded control systems for digital washing machines and performing a design/build for an Atomic Force Microscope. Additionally, I interned with Grote Industries assisting in the design and manufacture of the newly emerging thin film LED technology for truck and trailer interior and exterior lighting. I also tested optical, electrical and mechanical compliances and specifications for LED technology within the industry. I was introduced to Intellectual Property working as a summer intern for an IP law firm.
Working at HFZ has allowed me to grow my knowledge and passion for new and emerging technologies while working alongside intelligent, seasoned patent attorneys. I strive to help our clients attain their Intellectual Property rights which contributes to the overall health of our economic system.
Luke M. Haberkorn, BSEE
Before joining HFZ, I studied electrical engineering at Marquette University. During this period, I spent two summers working at a high-voltage switch manufacturing plant and one summer at an engineering consulting firm. I assisted in designing high voltage/ high current test cages and low voltage/medium voltage electrical systems, as well as, designing arc-flash potential for various electrical systems. During my time spent working, I gained valuable insights into the design and implementation of new innovative systems and processes. These experiences have helped form a passion to work with inventors and to help protect their innovations with strong intellectual property rights.
I come from a large family where six of us are electrical engineers. Growing up in a highly-skilled technical family instilled in me a passion for emerging technologies. Working with the HFZ team has allowed me to apply my engineering background while simultaneously fueling my fascination and curiosity for innovative technologies.
Justin R. Lizalek, BSEE
Before I joined the HFZ team, I studied electrical engineering at Marquette University. While at Marquette I worked in the power electronics lab assisting in the design of power electronic converters. Additionally, I interned at S&C Electric designing control systems for power converter test fixtures. I also interned at Johnson Controls in the Power Solutions division. Here, I conducted design verification of a solid-state relay for use in lithium ion battery control. Throughout these roles, I worked alongside skilled engineers and production staff to further the goals of innovating new products and systems.
At Hanley, Flight, and Zimmerman, I am able to utilize my technical background and interest in new and innovative technologies in the preparation and prosecution of patent applications for our diverse client network.
Kristopher T. Sabatini, BSME, BSAE
Prior to joining the HFZ team as a Patent Engineer, I studied Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Case Western Reserve University. As part of my education process, I co-oped with GE Aviation as a Product Design and Mission Analysis Engineer. I became interested in Intellectual Property Law during my junior year of college as President of Case Western’s Mock Trial program. Patent Law enhances my dual interests in engineering and law. At HFZ, I exercise my engineering know-how and passion for cutting edge technology to assist in the preparation and prosecution of patents for our clients.
Andrew R. Varrenti, MSEE, BSEE
Before joining the HFZ team, I worked as a senior electrical engineer at Schlumberger Oilfield Services in the Well Services and Coil Acquisition Software and Hardware product group. I designed, developed and commissioned electrical control systems on next generation land and offshore mixing equipment for high pressure pumping fluid delivery applications. I have extensive experience in electric, hydraulic and pneumatic control systems and a knowledge base in a wide array of commercial and industrial sensor technologies.
At HFZ, I am encouraged to leverage my industry experience along with my passion for learning about emerging technologies to protect our clients’ intellectual property.