Temi Akinlua | Peoria, IL

In all of Temi Akinlua's work and service, he pursues continuous improvement. As a Product Lifecycle Manager at Caterpillar, he leads initiatives that attract new customers and increase growth with existing customers. His expertise spans the entire product lifecycle, from design and manufacturing to driving strategic aftermarket growth. Nominator Nick Mitchell points to Temi's 20 patents as he writes, “In his 17-year career at Caterpillar, Temi has established himself as a leader in innovation and business development.”

Temi is also the co-founder and CEO of the Peoria-based startup, SWYCH Box. The business “aims to enhance the electric vehicle experience by providing self-service kiosks at charging stations, empowering customers to service their vehicles while they charge.” SWYCH Box became one of only six companies selected for the competitive 2024 gBETA accelerator program. “Peoria needs innovators who will think outside the box about making our community a better place,” writes Mitchell. “This is exactly the type of person Temi is.”

Akinlua grew up dreaming of being an engineer like his father and loved “tinkering, learning how things work and solving problems.” He has deep admiration for his mother and father. “They came to this country with very little money, few connections and a big dream,” Akinlua explains. “They worked incredibly hard to create amazing opportunities for me. Throughout their journey, they have always been very loving and supportive. They also showed me the impact someone can have on generations by extending a helping hand.”

Temi impacts younger generations through service to his community. He coordinated the construction of the Dream Center’s facilities and mentors trade school students. Temi has also coached youth sports, passionate about anything that empowers youth to attain their fullest potential.

It’s no surprise an innovator such as Akinlua loves to hang out at Distillery Labs. He explains, “I get to connect with a vibrant community of entrepreneurs and creators working to elevate Peoria. It’s an inspiring environment to be in.” When he is not at the lab, Akinlua loves to be outside to enjoy nature, “particularly the hiking trails at Forest Park Nature Center.”

Of his accomplishments, Akinlua most loves being a dad to his two kids: Nara who is “exceptionally kind, considerate, and hardworking,” able to “achieve anything she sets her mind on,” and his son Tean, “a unique spirit who is adventurous, starkly honest and able to brighten any room he enters.” He praises his wife, Nikolina, “She is my best friend, partner and confidant who acts as the center of our family, keeping the Akinlua household running seamlessly.”