About Us
Trying to cut product costs without the right tools or guidance feels like navigating a maze blindfolded. We’ve been there, facing the same frustration and pressure to reduce costs while keeping quality and desired customer features intact. Without access to proven methods, we had to roll up our sleeves and dive into trial and error, continuously experimenting to find what actually works. Those hard-won lessons—born from setbacks and breakthroughs—form the heart of our online training, on-site workshops, and personalized consulting services. We’re here to share our proven, structured approaches so you can sidestep the guesswork and tackle your product cost challenges with confidence.
We know how overwhelming it can be to stare down rising costs, tight margins, and competitive pressures without a clear plan. That’s why our course material is designed with you in mind, crafted from real-world experience to address the exact struggles you’re facing. Our online training offers flexible, practical lessons that guide your team through identifying inefficiencies and implementing cost-saving strategies that deliver results. For a more hands-on approach, our on-site workshops bring our experts to you, tailoring solutions to your unique operations. And with our consulting services, we partner closely with you to pinpoint savings opportunities—whether in production, supplier negotiations, or design—ensuring every step is actionable and effective.
At productcost.com, we’re not just offering services; we’re extending a hand to help you through the same challenges we faced. Our methods, refined through years of trial and error, are built to empower you with clarity and control. We understand the stress of managing product cost, and we’re here to help you turn it into an opportunity for growth. Let us guide you with the understanding and expertise you deserve, transforming your approach to managing cost and strengthening your business for the long haul.
Our team comes from different backgrounds and brings in experience with diverse views so as to enrich your learning experience.
Our Team
Heinrich Bartels
Heinrich Bartels earned a Bachelors and a Masters degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of the Witwatersrand and is currently a professional engineer in the state of Texas. He has a passion for product development and product management. He has served both in business and engineering leadership roles at multiple companies. Â
While at BAE Systems, he was responsible for leading engineering teams on a number of vehicle programs related to mine resistant ambush protected (MRAP) vehicles, tactical vehicles (FMTV) and other vehicle programs. At Forum Energy Technologies he served both as an Engineering Manager and the Product Line Director for products related to the mud systems on drilling rigs. He enjoys solving problems within a team environment and believes products need to be developed foremostly to address the needs of the customer while being cost effective and best in class.
Email :Â [email protected]
Tom Brans
Tom earned a BS degree in Physics at Loyola University in New Orleans.
He spent most of his 40-year career in industrial Measurement and Controls in sales, sales management and business leader roles. Measurement and Controls includes process industries such as oil &
gas, refining, pulp and paper, and power generation, as well as products used by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).
Tom worked as a sales manager at Emerson. At Honeywell he served
as a Business Leader where he worked with product managers and sales to be cost effective while meeting customer needs in the instrument product business. At Yokogawa, Tom worked as a Key Account Manager where he created and managed partnerships with selected global customers.
Email:Â [email protected]
Doug Chojecki
Doug has worked within a broad range of industries over his 40+ year design engineering career. These industries include: Aerospace & Defense, Oil & Gas, Waste and Industrial machinery. Doug earned a BSME at Auburn University, a Masters in Engineering Mechanics from the University of Florida and a MBA from the University of Dallas.
During his career he has launched new products, resolved significant legacy design issues and led product cost reduction initiatives. A believer in designing out product cost up front, prior projects have delivered cost reduced products with greater capability than the original product. Some of the work was recognized as new approaches resulting in 4 US patents. Doug maintains Professional Engineer certification in Texas and Florida.
