Biography of Ian Schenkel of Newport Beach

Ian Schenkel of Newport Beach is a mechanical engineer who built his career as an entrepreneur in the food industry, where he has worked for more than three decades Based in Newport Beach, California, he has applied both technical expertise and business knowledge to roles involving machinery design, large-scale food manufacturing, private labeling, and product development He is most recognized as the founder of a food manufacturing company that has

thrived for over thirty years despite the constant challenges of an industry known for its complexity and competitiveness.

What distinguishes his path is his ability to design systems that endure. Whether developing new products or optimizing production operations, he approaches challenges with the problem-solving skills of an engineer combined with the adaptability of an entrepreneur

Early Career and Technical Roots

His professional journey began with a degree in mechanical engineering, which equipped him with the knowledge to analyze, design, and improve systems In the early stages of his career, he worked on designing and building machinery, a role that provided a technical foundation he would later bring into food manufacturing.

Unlike many entrepreneurs who begin with a focus on marketing or branding, he entered the food sector from a technical standpoint. He understood how machinery directly impacted efficiency and product quality Ian Schenkel Haliburton also recognized the importance of time in manufacturing, observing that saving even a few seconds in a production cycle could translate into substantial hours of efficiency over a year

From Manufacturing to Entrepreneurship

Before creating his own company, he gained valuable experience across various areas of the food industry. Ian became familiar with private labeling, where he learned the importance of maintaining brand identity while meeting the demands of large-scale production He also built expertise in specialized food processes, including frozen vegetables and fire roasting

When he decided to start his own company, he knew it would not be an easy path The food business often operates with tight margins, unpredictable supply chains, and rapidly shifting consumer expectations. Yet he pursued a vision: to build a company that could adapt over time while never compromising on quality

That vision proved successful Over the years, his company has refined its operations, introduced new product lines, and remained strong in an industry where many businesses struggle to survive.

Keys to Running a Lasting Food Business

For him, long-term success is not about following every trend Instead, it is about getting the essentials right and applying them consistently Schenkel emphasizes several key principles that guide his business:

● Quality Control: He believes a company’s reputation begins on the production floor. Every step from sourcing materials to packaging must meet strict standards

● Operational Efficiency: By reducing waste and streamlining processes, he ensures that costs are controlled without compromising quality.

● Adaptability: He recognizes that regulations, technology, and consumer behavior are constantly evolving, necessitating business flexibility.

● Team Development: He invests in training and works to build a culture where employees feel valued for their contributions

These practices have helped his company remain competitive and trusted in an industry known for volatility

Leadership in Action

His leadership style combines technical knowledge with strategic foresight. Ian uses data as well as decades of practical experience to make decisions Known for listening while also being decisive, he ensures that his team feels included while keeping the company focused on its long-term objectives.

In Newport Beach, his leadership also extends to building strong relationships with suppliers, distributors, and local partners His fairness and reliability have earned him respect and strengthened business ties across the community

Lessons Learned Over 30+ Years

In more than three decades of experience, he has seen economic cycles, changes in consumer demand, and significant technological advancements From these experiences, he has learned that long-term success is not built on one breakthrough but on steady improvements repeated over time.

Schenkel often observes that staying in business is more challenging than starting one. Issues such as supply chain disruptions, cost pressures, and regulatory adjustments are constant, requiring persistence and adaptability

This year marks 33 years since the founding of his company, an achievement that reflects both endurance and commitment For him, the milestone is not just about longevity it also represents the trust, relationships, and shared efforts of the many people who contributed to the journey

Beyond the Office

Away from business, Ian finds balance in boating and golf Both require patience, focus, and adaptability, qualities that also apply to his professional life. These activities provide perspective and help him maintain equilibrium between work and personal commitments

He also values his time in Haliburton, where the natural surroundings offer a refreshing change from daily business responsibilities. The balance found there provides clarity and reinforces the importance of perspective in both personal and professional life

Looking Forward

Even after more than thirty years of success, he continues to look toward the future. His goals include expanding product offerings, adopting sustainable practices, and staying aligned with evolving consumer expectations

Drawing from his engineering background, Schenkel sees value in integrating new technologies such as automation and advanced systems At the same time, he believes technology should enhance human expertise rather than replace it. For him, skilled people remain essential to maintaining true quality in production

A Career Defined by Consistency and Adaptability

From his beginnings as a mechanical engineer to his role today as the founder of a food manufacturing company, his career has been shaped by consistency, adaptability, and dedication

Whether managing operations in Newport Beach or finding balance in Haliburton, he continues to apply the same principles: prioritize quality, maintain efficiency, and adapt to change when necessary.

Through every stage of his journey, Ian Schenkel has shown that success is not about short-term gains but about building systems, practices, and relationships that last.