Archives: Team Members

C. Taylor Grote, JD, 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.

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.

Emmett T. Russell, BSBME

Before joining HFZ, I studied biomechanical engineering at Marquette University. While studying at Marquette, I worked at Medela, LLC in the Product Development department where I assisted in researching, developing, and testing electrical and mechanical aspects of pumps and associated production processes. I became interested in intellectual property through my grandfather who is the inventor of several patents in the construction industry (e.g., US 4,000,592).

Working at HFZ has allowed me to utilize my engineering background as well as my passion for learning about new and emerging technologies. Here I enjoy working with the inventors at the forefront of innovation to develop and protect their inventive concepts.

Adam G. Popper, BSEE

Before I joined the HFZ team, I studied Electrical Engineering at Purdue University. During this time, I worked as a teaching assistant for several electrical and computer engineering courses. I also had internships at Grayhill Inc., Morey Corporation, Argonne National Laboratory, and Collins Aerospace. I first took an interest in intellectual property law during my junior year during a communications law course. This course introduced me to the idea of being able to take my passion for technology into the world of law.

At HFZ, I am looking forward to continuing to learn about intellectual property law from experienced attorneys. During my time with HFZ, I look forward to working with inventors and companies to build strong portfolios and protect innovative product solutions.

Kate I. Chwistek, MSME, BSME

Before joining the team at HFZ, I studied mechanical engineering at Northern Illinois University. A highlight of my time at Northern was my senior design project, for which my team and I designed and manufactured a wearable exoskeleton arm with lift assist capabilities. Additionally, I interned at EN Engineering to assist in designing pipeline systems for transportation of natural gas. After completing my undergraduate degree, I continued my education at Northern to pursue a master’s degree in mechanical engineering with an emphasis in dynamic systems and control. As a graduate research assistant, I worked on analyzing behavioral patterns of complex systems in nature, then capturing those behavioral patterns in a mathematical model. Ultimately, my graduate career culminated in a thesis paper in which I modeled the response of fish schools to a simulated predator.

Graduate research sparked my interest in learning about the new and novel, and ultimately led me to pursue a career in patent law at HFZ. At HFZ, I am consistently exposed to new ideas and technologies across all areas of industry. By helping to protect the intellectual property of some of industry’s brightest minds, I hope to further cultivate a culture of innovation and discovery that keeps the world moving forward.

David D. Osinski, MSECE, BSCE

Before joining the HFZ team, I studied Electrical & Computer Engineering at Michigan State University.  During this time, I worked as a graduate research assistant writing code for eddy current simulations used by nuclear power plants.  Throughout my schooling I also held internships in the aviation, automotive, and hydraulics industries, which were both hardware and software focused. This wide interest in disciplines also lead me to look at patent law as a means of incorporating new technologies and a desire to learn into my career.

 

At HFZ, I can combine my background and interests through patent law, doing so under the guidance of experienced and professional team members.

Ethan W. Hopp, BSEE

Prior to joining HFZ, I was a systems engineer at Milwaukee Tool, where I helped design and test tool platforms. While studying Electrical Engineering at Michigan State University, I was also involved in their entrepreneurship program where I ran a small business. During this time, I had my first introduction to intellectual property while pursuing my own patent. This experience inspired me to work with other inventors to help them protect their intellectual property. I am currently pursuing my JD at the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law so I can further my knowledge of intellectual property.

 

At HFZ, I leverage my engineering knowledge and industry experience to assist clients in protecting their cutting-edge technology.

David Mittel, Accounting Director, CPA

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.

Bill O’Connor, Office & Recruitment Manager

At HFZ, I am pleased to work with a tremendously talented team of attorneys, engineers and professional staff performing their best work for our clients on a day to day basis. I direct a recruiting strategy for the hiring of patent engineers, patent agents, patent attorneys, administrative staff, interns and temporary workers. I help facilitate the onboarding of new employees, and the planning of special events and celebrations for the firm throughout the year. Prior to working at HFZ, I was a public spokesperson for various companies within the automotive, textbook, technology and consumer goods industries.

Guadalupe Zambrano, Administrative Coordinator

I am the Administrative Coordinator at Hanley, Flight & Zimmerman. I have been part of HFZ for 7 years overseeing the Front Reception Desk and staff, working with various vendors providing office services to our firm, while also supporting specialty projects for other administrative departments.  I enjoy helping HFZ maintain good relationships within building management and building services, as well as, our outside vendors. Prior to working at HFZ, I attended Fox College and graduated with a certificate of Applied Science in Administrative Assistant.