Allison Mendel

Senior Engineer working in the Aftertreatment Performance group for Detroit Diesel Corporation (DDC)

Avid bicyclist

Years with the company: 5.

What's your favorite part of working here?

I don't have to sit in a cubicle all day. I investigate issues ranging from component performance to system emissions in our reliability growth vehicle fleet. I love that I get to work on vehicles since my focus is on the end product and making the whole system work.

How are you innovating?

Working on the new emission requirements from the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and CARB (California Air Resources Board) requires our department to be innovative. We just released our new aftertreatment system in 2010 and I'm part of the team working on our new 2013 system. I'm very proud to be part of the teams that have met the strictest emissions regulation to date and have delivered on a product that is considered the industry benchmark. Only innovative teams can beat the competition.

Why would you recommend Daimler Trucks North America?

I would recommend Daimler Trucks North America because there is a good fit for everyone. I started in Detroit but felt that my current position for DDC (Detroit Diesel Corporation) in Portland would be a good experience. The company was able to work with me and deliver on my desires. There are so many options with our different subsidiaries. Our company is very open to transfers which really opens up opportunities here.

What do you do outside of work?

I commute to work, which got me interested in biking again. I think I'm going to put in some extra miles on my route home to prep for a century ride. I've also been reading up on how to personally fix my bike.