Chris Rakyta

Chris Rakyta has extensive work experience in various engineering and management roles. Currently, they serve as the Senior Director of Research Development & Engineering at Luminex Home Décor & Fragrance, where they lead the R&D functions, innovation activities, and is responsible for engineering and maintenance. In this role, they manage a team that includes scientists, engineers, managers, maintenance staff, and R&D project leaders.

Prior to their current position, Rakyta worked at Candle-lite for over 25 years, holding roles such as Director of Engineering & Continuous Improvement and Senior Manager of Engineering & Product Development. Chris also worked at Candle-lite Company for the same duration as the Senior Director of Research, Development & Engineering.

Before joining Candle-lite, Rakyta worked at Marathon Petroleum as an Associate Field Engineer, where they served as a Construction Project Manager. In this role, they oversaw new construction and remodels of Speedway and Marathon stations and managed tasks such as permitting, regulatory compliance, quoting, bidding, and budget management.

Overall, Rakyta has a wealth of experience in engineering, research, and development, and has demonstrated strong leadership skills in managing teams and driving innovation.

Chris Rakyta pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from The Ohio State University between 1979 and 1983.