Dennemeyer's Associate Spotlight is a monthly feature highlighting our team of dedicated professionals who work in 23 offices around the globe. Get to know Steven M. Shape, Managing Partner of Dennemeyer & Associates US.
As a seasoned patent and trademark attorney and litigator, Steven shares in the strategic direction and management of the patent matters of Dennemeyer & Associates US. Steven is a licensed private pilot and a musician, having trained in both percussion and guitar. Something you might find interesting about him is that he has gathered an eclectic group of musical instruments and aviation artifacts.
What IP matters do you assist clients with the
most?
I've been actively filing and prosecuting patent and trademark
applications in the electrical, electronic systems, software and
mechanical fields over the years. Today, I consult with clients on
their overall IP strategy and advise clients on how to cost
effectively manage and monetize their Intellectual Property
portfolios, including managing worldwide licensing programs. The
constant focus is to avoid the expense of litigation.
What has been your favorite IP work you've been
involved with or case you've handled?
I was honored to represent a Japanese inventor who held more
Japanese patents than Thomas Edison held U.S. patents. I was
successful in representing the inventor and his companies in the
field of electric discharge machining (EDM) technology, filing 5
patent lawsuits in the U.S. over a 9 year period. Each case was
settled with significant upfront payment to the inventor's
companies and an ongoing license. The last case was settled for a
very high 9 figure amount which lead to the sale of the
inventor's companies to the defendant, and a complete exit
strategy for my client. A very rewarding outcome, indeed!
If Dennemeyer were a TV show, which actor would you want
to play you?
I hope Michael Douglas would be available for the role!
What is the best thing about the company you won't
find in the job description?
Our incredible double digit growth rate year over year since I have
been with the firm is truly amazing. It can be a challenge to
manage at times, but it is exciting and rewarding to be riding the
crest of the wave year after year with such wonderful and talented
people!
Do you have any "hidden
talents"?
I enjoy taking first time Chicago visitors on a chauffeured plane
ride along the lakefront of Lake Michigan, and up north into
Wisconsin, to see the sites of the area from a different
perspective. They all are amazed at the views from 5,000 feet.
What is your favorite thing to do in your spare
time?
I am an engineer at heart, and very much enjoy building computers
and updating the components to run efficiently. I am also
constantly tinkering with musical amplification and sound systems,
looking for that perfect combination.
What is your most treasured possession?
I have two very cherished guitars (from 1968 and 1972), an
amplifier (1968), and a very old art print of world war II aircraft
that are near and dear to my heart!
Where is your favorite vacation destination and
why?
It is on my bucket list: Italy's Amalfi Coast with a side trip
to Tuscany. Can't wait to get there to enjoy the views from
above!
What is something most people might be surprised to know
about you?
I am typically the "go to" for anything that needs
repairing in my immediate or extended family. I just can't say
"no" to a good technical challenge, no matter how long it
may take!