MEET THE TEAM: MIKE SANSOM
Engineering Manager
Leading the Way in Industrial Refrigeration Engineering
As the Engineering Manager at Superior Industrial Refrigeration (SIR), a trusted partner for innovative industrial refrigeration solutions, Mike Sansom is dedicated to delivering efficient and sustainable systems for large-scale ammonia refrigeration operations. With more than 8 years of experience in designing manufacturing automation, material handling, and processing equipment, Mike has been instrumental in shaping SIR's engineering department since joining the company in 2023, just a year after its founding in March 2022.
About Superior Industrial Refrigeration (SIR) SIR is a licensed industrial refrigeration contractor specializing in ammonia (NH3) systems, serving the Western United States. With a modern approach and a growing team of experts, SIR offers design, installation, maintenance, and repair services for industrial refrigeration systems. Their commitment to safety, precision, and customer service makes them the superior choice for food processing, pharmaceuticals, cold-storage warehouses, and more.
A Passion for Engineering Born and raised in Idaho, Mike's journey to becoming an engineer was unconventional. After owning a window cleaning business, he went back to school during the 2008 recession, intending to become a math teacher. However, his classmates' passion for engineering sparked his interest, and he pursued a BSME degree at Boise State, graduating in 2014.
Environmental Impact Mike prioritizes environmental sustainability in his designs, considering the long-term effects of his work. He stays up-to-date with industry developments and compliance codes, including those set by the International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration (IIAR).
Outside of Work When not designing innovative refrigeration systems, Mike enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter. Whether it's a game night or a camping trip, Mike values the time spent with his family and friends. His daughter is heading off to college in the fall, and Mike is beaming with pride. He's also looking forward to traveling with his wife, including an upcoming trip to Hawaii and a cruise to Mexico.
Expertise and Ethics As an Engineer in Training, Mike is committed to becoming a Professional Engineer (PE) and plans to take the test in 2024. He emphasizes the importance of ethics in engineering, adhering to the code of always doing what's best for society. His role at SIR involves designing ammonia refrigeration systems, troubleshooting, and ensuring compliance with industry standards.
Notable Projects and Future Directions Mike is proud of his contributions to projects like the leading fruit growing and packaging company in Washington state. He's excited about upcoming projects, such as a complete system analysis for a food processor in Utah. This System Study will evaluate efficiencies and potential improvements in an existing industrial refrigeration system. As SIR continues to grow, the engineering department will expand alongside it, and Mike is eager to build a team from the ground up. He looks forward to mentoring and leading a talented group of engineers, fostering a culture of innovation, and driving excellence in industrial refrigeration solutions.
Collaboration and Innovation Mike works closely with clients, project engineers, and maintenance managers to design systems that meet their specific needs. He believes in asking "why" a system works a certain way, rather than just focusing on the outcome. This approach leads to innovative solutions, such as the heat exchanger system he designed for a global food corporation.
A Valued Team Member: Eric York's Perspective "Mike Sansom is an invaluable asset to our team at SIR. His exceptional engineering skills, combined with his professionalism and dedication to excellence, have been instrumental in driving our company's growth and success. Mike's ability to design and deliver innovative refrigeration solutions has earned him the respect of our clients and colleagues alike. As we continue to expand our services and reach, I'm confident that Mike will play a key role in shaping the future of SIR and helping us achieve our goals."