Our People
Matt Johnson P.E.
Owner/ Electrical Engineer
Matt is an licensed Professional Engineer (PE) with over 15 years of experience in industrial power, controls design, and construction management. Prior to engineering he helped run a successful construction business for 20 years. Matt's primary expertise is professional electrical design for complex water and wastewater systems. Matt’s project portfolio includes multiple projects for the city of Post Falls Water and Wastewater Departments, Kaiser Aluminum, and many other private and public districts. Outside of work he enjoys training Jiu Jitsu, spending time with his family, and hunting.
Hunter Hawkins PhD
Software Developer/ Systems Integrator
Hunter Hawkins is a recent PhD graduate from the University of Idaho, specializing in AI for industrial manufacturing and infrastructure. He has spent over five years at Wapiti Consulting, growing from hands‑on panel building to a multifaceted role in software development and systems integration. Outside of work, he enjoys training MMA and Jiu‑Jitsu, working on cars, and spending time with his family and animals.
Dan Blanchette
Software Developer/ Systems Integrator
Dan is a controls-focused software developer with nearly two years of experience in PLC programming, HMI design, and industrial Python development, backed by 14 years of hands‑on machine operation in the steel industry. He holds a Master's in Computer Science from the University of Idaho and is pursuing a PhD in intelligent industrial robotics, focusing on automation, machine learning, and Industry 4.0 modernization. Outside of work, he teaches automation workshops and spends his free time hiking, kayaking, and board gaming with his wife and friends.
Tim Lybeck
Software Developer/ Systems Integrator
Tim Lybeck is a recent graduate of the University of Idaho with a Master's in comptuer science, specializing in industrial controls, robotics, and embedded systems. Prior to working at Wapiti, he held software development internships at Idaho National Laboratory and NASA. Outside of work, he enjoys motorcycling and flying FPV drones.
Dustin Weed
Systems Integrator
Dustin is a results-driven professional with 25 years of experience in team leadership and strategic problem-solving. Currently serving as a Control Systems Integrator specializing in the integration of Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) systems and the construction of UL508A Industrial Control Panels. Dustin’s career is defined by a unique versatility; his diverse background in technical inspections, multi-unit sales leadership, and commercial photography allows him to approach complex industrial challenges with a rare blend of precision and innovative strategy. A graduate of North Idaho College and a lifelong resident of Coeur d’Alene, he remains dedicated to advancing industrial control technologies within his local community and the broader ASR industry.
Nelson Kauffman
AutoCAD Drafter, Project Management, Production Manager
Nelson Has been working with Wapiti Consulting for 9 years with an emphasis on electrical design, integration and project management. Mr. Kauffman is the lead drafter and manages the production of control panels. He has had 20 additional years past experience with civil, mechanical, structural, and architectural drafting. Nelson is an active member of the Nez Piere Indian Tribe.
Jason Hembree
Parts Specialist / Systems Integrator
Jason brings a background of quality, customer and inventory skills. He spent 6 years as a quality inspector for an aerospace company and 10 years as an inventory manager, shipping clerk and customer relations specialist for a sheet metal company. Jason has been ISO 9100 certified as well as trained in lean manufacturing, He is also UL 508A certified.
Sly Camacho
Systems Integrator
Silvestre is an operations‑driven professional with a background spanning large‑scale agricultural management, aerospace manufacturing, and high‑precision technical work. He combines hands‑on expertise in fabrication, equipment maintenance, and complex system oversight with strong leadership and communication skills in both English and Spanish. Outside of industry, he is a certified Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu instructor dedicated to mentoring students and fostering disciplined, supportive learning environments.
Josh Lewis
Electrician / Systems Integrator
Josh is a third-year student at the North Idaho Workforce Training Center pursuing his Journeyman's electrical card, and a certified UL 508A Control Panel "Qualified Manufacturer" of two years. Other education includes on-the-job training pertaining to PLC programming, HMI programming, and the integrating of 3R/Wapiti ASR (Aquifer Powered Recovery) systems. After his current schooling, he intends to continue his education into a degree in Electrical Engineering. In his free time, he takes to the mountains in any season, preferably when the snow flies, but when confined to the urban sprawl Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and a fondness of driving keep him occupied.
Nikki Easterday
Human Resources
Nikki was raised in Hayden, Idaho and is proud to be a part of the community. She has been with the company since 2021, serving as the Office Manager and Human Resources Manager, Where she helps keep daily operations running smoothly and supports the team behind the company's success. Prior to joining Wapiti, Nikki managed several hair salons, where she developed strong leadership and organizational skills. Outside of work, Nikki Enjoys spending time with her husband, Nate, and their daughter, Tatum. Their family loves to be in the outdoors and everything rodeo. They spend most of their time traveling to rodeo grounds cheering on Tatum as she pursues her passion for barrel racing.