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Welcome! I'm Calem

I am an entrepreneur and leader driven by a passion for solving complex challenges in the supply chain and automation industry. My career began in the military, where I learned the value of discipline, accountability, and leadership under pressure. Those experiences shaped how I approach every professional challenge today—with a focus on integrity, adaptability, and delivering results.

After transitioning into the private sector, I built my career working with some of the largest systems integrators and Fortune 100 companies, where I saw firsthand both the opportunities and the inefficiencies within the industry. That perspective inspired me to create Top Hat Engineering, a software-first systems integrator dedicated to bridging the gap between cutting-edge technology and operational execution.

At Top Hat Engineering, we developed the Clarity Warehouse Optimization System (WOS), a proprietary platform designed to help distribution, fulfillment, and e-commerce facilities operate smarter. By unifying fragmented tools and leveraging machine learning, Clarity WOS enables organizations to improve throughput, optimize labor, and drive measurable savings. Today, we are proud to partner with industry leaders to deliver scalable solutions that create lasting impact.

My journey—from serving my country, to navigating corporate America, to founding a company—has reinforced one principle above all: success comes from strong leadership, meaningful partnerships, and the courage to challenge the status quo. I remain committed to building organizations, solutions, and teams that drive progress and create value.

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Calem Harris

FOUNDER & CEO

TOP HAT ENGINEERING

Email:

Location:

Tampa, FL

Industry Expertise:

  • Supply Chain Software

  • Supply Chain Automation

  • Warehouse Design

  • Supply Chain Operations

  • Research & Development

EXPERIENCE

2023-Current

Top Hat Engineering

Founder & CEO

I lead the company’s strategic vision, growth initiatives, and operational execution, driving the development of innovative warehouse optimization, automation, and software solutions for some of the world’s largest supply chain organizations. I oversee corporate strategy, customer relationships, product innovation, and organizational leadership to deliver transformative technologies that improve efficiency, reduce labor costs, and create measurable value for our customers.

2023-2024

Fortna

Sr. Director, Software Operations & Strategic Projects

I led cross-functional teams responsible for the design, deployment, and support of enterprise software solutions for large-scale distribution, fulfillment, and automation operations. I directed strategic initiatives from concept through execution, aligning technology, operations, and business objectives to improve performance, drive innovation, and deliver measurable value to customers and stakeholders.

2018 - 2023

Staples

Director, Controls & Automation Group

I directed the engineering, implementation, and support of large-scale automation and controls projects, managing teams responsible for PLC, HMI, SCADA, and warehouse control system development. I partnered with customers, vendors, and executive leadership to deliver high-value automation solutions that increased throughput, reduced labor dependency, and supported long-term business growth.

2016 - 2018

Daifuku

Program Manager

I directed multimillion-dollar automation programs supporting distribution, fulfillment, and e-commerce operations for some of the industry's largest customers. I was responsible for overall program performance, including scope, schedule, financial management, customer satisfaction, and the successful deployment of integrated automation, controls, and software solutions.

2015 - 2016

IPA Family

Software Project Manager

I led cross-functional teams responsible for developing and deploying mission-critical software systems that integrated warehouse automation, controls, and material handling equipment. I served as the primary liaison between customers, engineering teams, and executive leadership, ensuring the successful execution of complex projects that improved operational efficiency, throughput, and system reliability.

2013 - 2015

BAE Systems

Technical Project Manager

Served as a senior project manager to senior military leadership regarding technical solutions implemented to support military operations. Liaised with the customer, identified project requirements, and translated those requirements into necessary project induction. Designed, developed, and prototyped technical solutions to support the combat effectiveness of military operations globally.

2009 - 2013

United States Marine Corps

Special Operations Intelligence Officer

I managed intelligence operations supporting combat and special operations forces in high-risk environments throughout the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. I led cross-functional teams responsible for intelligence collection, strategic analysis, and operational planning, delivering critical decision support to senior military leaders and mission commanders.

EDUCATION

EDUCATION

2011-2013

Master of Science

Information Management Systems

Completed my Master's degree with a focus on innovative supply chain solutions and leadership principles.

2005-2009

Bachelor of Science

United States Naval Academy

Bachelor's of Science in Systems Engineering

2001-2005

High School Diploma

Freedom High School

Graduated with honors, actively participating in various extracurricular activities.

AWARDS & SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS

AWARDS

AWARDS

  • Top 40 Under 40; Tampa Bay Business Journal

  • Transformational Leader of the Year; Whitepaper International

  • Top 10 Most Impactful Leaders Making a Difference; CIO Views

  • ​Leaders Making A Difference; Who's Who in America

  • Recipient of the Staples 2.0 Award; Staples Inc.

SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS

  • Interview; SCM Talent Group Podcast

  • Key Note Speaker; Process Minining Live Conference

  • Key Note Speaker; AI Accelerator Institute

  • Key Note Speaker; Meet the Boss

  • Board Member & Key Note Speaker; BU Technology Leadership Summit

SKILLS

SKILLS

Supply Chain Automation

Supply Chain Operations

Supply Chain Software

Entrepeneurship

Leadership Development

Business Strategy & Analytics

EXPERTISE

EXPERTISE

Supply Chain Innovation

I specialize in developing innovative solutions that address complex supply chain challenges, driving efficiency and growth.

Thought Leadership

I am committed to sharing insights, best practices, engineering advancements, and fostering discussions on best practices and future trends in supply chain management.

Consulting Services

I offer tailored consulting services to businesses seeking to optimize their supply chain operations and integrate automation technologies.

CONTACT
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