Directing With Purpose

when I was introduced to the outdoor & athletic apparel industry, I realized i could apply my love for problem solving to apparel TO protect, enhance, and support the well being of people and their environment. what I enjoy most about designing product through this filter is that these attributes can be applied to elevate both fashion and performance products. whether it’s called athletic, active, performance, or athletic inspired apparel- it’S THE MOST SPECIALIZED TYPE OF APPAREL DESIGN AND is the most universally worn product IN THE WORLD. this is my wheelhouse, my flow, my superpower, my purpose in the apparel industry.

Below are examples of innovative design projects I have had the honor and pleasure to direct, lead, mentor, or collaborate on with phenomenal designers, product teams, and students.

Nike / Jordan Brand Apparel

As Design Director for apparel at Nike for the jordan brand, I led teams in basketball, training, lifestyle, and accessories. One of MY proudest moments with the apparel team was reimagining the iconic AJ1 Wings flight warm up from 1985. Using the DNA of the original apparel, the team informed the new, modern aesthetic, streamlined fit, and connection to the Jordan brand story. Materials were elevated with performance engineered knit, therma fleece, and premium no fray plaited jersey, quality bemis embellishments.

designing with purpose has given my career it’s focus. my experience in research, design, and development of innovative apparel and accessory products span two decades. my contributions as a designer and director in global brands include Nike/Jordan, adidas (twice), the north face, eddie bauer, levi strauss&co, and others .

in addition to my professional design path, my passion for mentoring the the next generation of designers on opportunities in this specialized space led me to found The FAAS design certificate program. FAAS (functional apparel & accessories studio) is a consumer focused design program with The objective to develop diverse designers in performance product design, provide free design education grounded in best practices used in the industry, and give mentees opportunity to receive direct guidance from industry professionals.

The program participants have the opportunity to learn from professional designers within brands that have included REI Co-op, Foot Action, nike, the north face, adidas, and others to earn a Certificate of Completion. FAAS also partners with educational institutions that include Pensole Lewis College, Pacific Northwest College of Art, and Portland State University to bring a unique product creation experience to existing art & design programs.

in this ‘learn while doing’ program, each fAAS participant researches consumer insights, material innovations, sustainable practices, and industry technology to problem solve the same way industry professionals work. The program experience culminates in a collaborative final team presentation to an audience of industry professional and paid apprenticeships are offered by the sponsoring company to the top talents who are ready for the opportunity.