About Velocity Pump & Controls

Bob Antaya is the Founder and President of Velocity Pump & Controls, bringing over 25 years of experience in pumps, process systems, and engineered solutions for industrial and municipal applications. With a background as a sales engineer, he is known for his solutions-first, consultative approach and for putting customer needs ahead of the sale.

Bob works closely with clients to solve complex challenges, focusing on long-term reliability, transparency, and informed decision-making. He leads Velocity Pump & Controls with integrity, technical expertise, and a commitment to delivering dependable solutions.

Steve Harkness, Vice President at Velocity Pump & Controls, brings 39 years of experience across every major market in the pump industry. His background includes working closely with end users, consultants, and contractors to ensure proper pump selection and optimal performance for each application. He also supports customers with pump system troubleshooting, service, and repair as needed.

Chad Szakacs has an extensive background in industrial lubricants and specialty chemicals with over twenty years of experience working closely with maintenance, reliability, and operations teams to improve equipment performance, extend asset life, and reduce overall operating costs. His focus is on practical, application-driven solutions that deliver measurable results in demanding industrial environments. Chad holds a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Sciences from Western Michigan University and is currently completing his Executive MBA at Eastern University.

Perla Shbaklo is the Marketing Manager at Velocity Pump & Controls, where she leads brand strategy, marketing execution, and digital growth initiatives. She develops brochures and sales collateral, manages social media and integrated marketing campaigns, and ensures consistent, professional messaging across all customer touchpoints. Perla holds a master’s degree in Marketing and Innovation from the University of Michigan and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Business Administration in Business Intelligence and Data Analytics. She leverages AI-driven tools, automation, and data-informed insights to strengthen outreach, engagement, and performance across industrial and municipal markets.

Tyler Palchak is a dedicated Application Engineer at Velocity Pump and Controls, where he utilizes a strong background in mechanical engineering to provide technical solutions for fluid handling and control systems. Tyler has built extensive expertise in system sizing, technical optimization, and regulatory compliance within the industrial and plumbing sectors. Throughout his career, which includes experience as a Product Engineer and Regional Manager, he has developed a reputation for bridging the gap between complex engineering designs and practical, field-based applications. As an active member of the American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE), Tyler remains committed to staying at the forefront of industry standards and delivering consultative solutions for water treatment and pump systems across Michigan.

Andy Jensen serves as the Service and Repair Manager at Velocity Pump and Controls, where he oversees the critical maintenance and restoration of industrial and municipal pumping systems. With a strong focus on operational efficiency and mechanical reliability, Andy leads a team dedicated to diagnosing complex equipment failures and implementing long-term repair solutions. His role is central to the company’s commitment to minimizing downtime for clients in Michigan’s water and wastewater sectors. Known for his hands-on technical expertise and leadership, he ensures that every project meets rigorous industry standards for safety and performance. Andy plays a vital role in maintaining the infrastructure that supports his local community and the broader regional industry.