A former engineer has taken legal action against his previous employer, alleging age and disability discrimination. Michael Kalagian filed a complaint on November 18, 2024, in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against ClearFlame Engines, Inc., also known as ClearFlame Engine Technologies.
The lawsuit stems from events that unfolded during Kalagian's tenure at ClearFlame, where he claims to have faced direct discrimination based on his age and disability. According to the complaint, Kalagian was terminated from his position on August 15, 2023, under the guise of a reduction in force. However, he alleges that this reason was pretextual and that he was replaced by a younger and less experienced employee who subsequently caused significant safety issues at the company. Kalagian contends that during his employment, he overheard derogatory comments about older employees from Human Resources managers and other leadership figures. For instance, he recalls a conversation where it was suggested that health insurance premiums would be lower without "all of these old sick people" on staff. Furthermore, he recounts being told by a colleague that he looked "much younger" without his beard and hearing another manager complain about attending an event with too many "geriatrics."
Kalagian argues that these instances reflect a broader pattern of discrimination at ClearFlame Engines. He claims to have been denied information regarding disability benefits shortly before his termination and believes he was training his own replacement—a younger individual with no experience—who later mishandled critical safety protocols. In light of these allegations, Kalagian asserts violations of several laws: the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the Illinois Human Rights Act.
The plaintiff seeks various forms of relief from the court. He requests compensation for lost wages and benefits, front pay as appropriate, liquidated damages equal to those losses due to what he describes as bad faith actions by ClearFlame Engines. Additionally, Kalagian seeks equitable relief such as reinstatement or promotion within the company should it be deemed appropriate by the court. The complaint also asks for attorney fees and costs associated with bringing forth this lawsuit.
Representing Michael Kalagian is attorney Andrew H. Stuart from Stuart & Johnston LLC based in Marietta, Georgia. The case has been assigned Case ID 3:24-cv-50471 but does not yet list any presiding judges.