CES Newsletter Member Spotlight: Matt Dreyfuss – Brewing Ideas and Building the Future of CES
If you ask Matt Dreyfuss how he ended up as President of the Cleveland Engineering Society, you’ll get a story that includes nuclear power, craft beer, and a whole lot of engineering passion.
Matt is the Director of Applications Engineering and Tech Development at Hose Master, where he leads a team that works on custom-engineered parts and cutting-edge automation. “It’s a customer-facing role,” he explains. “We take standard components and processes and turn them into something tailored and innovative. Plus, I get to play with AI and automation—what’s not to love?”
From Nuclear Reactors to Breweries
Matt’s path to CES wasn’t exactly traditional. After studying abroad in France during his senior year at Tulane, he stuck around to earn his master’s. He started his career in nuclear power, then pivoted to open a brewery with his best friends in 2008. Eventually, he returned to Cleveland and joined Hose Master in 2017, where he’s steadily climbed the ranks.
Why CES?
Matt got involved with CES through his work with ASME and the Cleveland Technical Societies Council. “I met Trish and Mike Heil at one of the annual dinners, and that’s what pulled me in,” he says. He’s now been on the CES board for two years and is passionate about creating opportunities for the next generation of engineers.
One of his favorite moments? Sponsoring students to attend CES events. “It’s rewarding to connect with younger engineers and help them find their footing.”
Looking Ahead: Matt’s Vision for CES
As President, Matt has a clear and refreshing vision for the future of CES:
1. Empower the Members
“I want to see more members leading our committees—not just the board. The board should focus on governance, while the members drive the day-to-day events and engagement.”
2. Build a More Active Community
“We need more active members who are excited to get involved. The more voices we have, the better our events and programs will be. We’re open to new ideas—this is a member-led organization.”
He’s especially excited about CES’s signature events like the Golf Outing and the EC&M Conference, but he’s also eager to hear what you want to see more of.
Advice for the Next Generation
Matt’s advice to young engineers is simple but powerful:
“Learn as much as you can outside your core focus. Get involved in something that will expand your skills—not just as an engineer, but as a person. It’s never too early to give back, and that doesn’t always mean money. Your time, your ideas, your energy—they all matter.”
He also wants early-career professionals to know they don’t need decades of experience to make an impact.
“You’re not too young or too inexperienced to get involved. CES is a great place to grow, connect, and contribute.”
Thinking About Joining CES?
Matt’s advice?
“Just join.”
“The commitment is light, and the return on investment is what you make of it. It’s beneficial on so many levels—professionally, personally, and for the community.”