JanSport & Vanity Fair

In my role as RDD Manager-Innovation, I pioneered the Innovation Program which generated ideas that significantly enhanced product and brand relevance among key demographics via the application of new innovation processes in the RDD department and “human centered” design principles.

• Introduced and directed multiple parallel programs that fostered a culture of innovation and introduced groundbreaking product innovations such as a collaborative effort between JANSPORT RDD team and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Media Lab which resulted in cutting edge product concepts that feature built in electronic components. In addition, spearheaded collaborations  with firms such as Lunar Design and Hexhead Design.

• Developed the Digital Superbreak, an update of JanSport’s best selling style to meet the needs of today’s consumer. Sold over 100,000 units in its first season. Continues to be a best - seller. 

• As Product Developer: Spearheaded development of the company’s largest product line (classic and heritage). Developed one of the company’s first products for APPLE (Right Pack for APPLE). Created 100+spec packages each season, maintained communication with Asia based factories, and made 1-2 trips to Asia per year.

The Zip Off Superbreak

This is a 3 in 1 bag: When you get to your destination and want a smaller bag, the front zips off for lighter daily travel.

DigiBreak

Led the redesign of Jansport’s iconic SuperBreak backpack, by adding features that reflect current carry needs such as laptop, phone and iPad pockets, without changing the iconic shape of the bag. Continues to be a best seller.

Collabs With Lunar and Hexhead

Through collaborations with Lunar Design and Hexhead Design, our design teams spearheaded upgrades to the iconic Superbreak backpack. In addition the idea of a bag becoming integrated into apparel was explored.

Collabs With MIT Media Lab

A Hackathon at the MIT Media Lab led to several groundbreaking ideas which were prototyped. Trip Tracker embedded a camera in our bags to take photos and document the trip. An accompanying app logs and tracks your journey. Another idea involved RFID embedded in the bag strap to help you remember your most important items. We also explored ways to illuminate the bag and use the backpack face as a form of communication.