Michael Bretz

Industrial Design Instructor

2023 – Present

Freelance Designer

2019 – 2038

Successfully completed design projects for a variety of clients in the outdoor sports and cycling industry. Registered and sold multiple patents.

CPM Outdoor

2019 – 2019

Director Innovation

2017 – 2019

Launched a new product category: Wearable Hydration. www.Hydrastash.com • Awarded multiple patents for technology and detail solutions developed throughout the Development process. • Collaborated with the marketing team on creating a brand and launching the product to the market; introduced it at Outdoor Retailer in January 2018; received multiple awards: Outdoor Magazine "Gear of the Show 2018", Freeskier magazine "Best of Show", Gear Institute "Best new Gear", SKI magazine "Showstopper 2018" • Launched a brand of functional accessories. www.westwellmfg.com (10/15/18/ to the public) specifically developed for direct to consumer retail model; Focused the ability to offer customization options to consumer and establishing shorter lead times reducing inventory risks and allowing for flexibility in sku management. Developed products in China, Taiwan and in the US and set up new supply chains. Awarded 3 utility patents.

Senior Designer Softgoods

2015 – 2017

Created line plans based on sales data, forecasts and market research for soft goods and equipment. • Designed and developed a new generation of performance chamois based on latest medical research. Coordinated and carried out field and lab testing including pressure mapping and bold flow analysis. Developed gender and riding-type specific solutions (mountain bike; road race; time trails; triathlon; road long distance). Reduced the FOB 6$ per chamois over previous chamois resulting in savings exceeding 1.5 million US$ per season. • Led a cross-functional team to developed materials and implemented new technologies including wearable electronics. Designed performance apparel for mountain and road riding and lead fit sessions. Created detailed tech packs including all artwork and trim. Coordinated custom graphics with athletes and managed timelines and factories for the Mountain Racing Team apparel program for EWS and UCI-DH racers. • Developed materials and production methods for performance road cycling apparel and developed a new skin-suite with significantly reduced aerodynamic drag for sponsored athletes. Researched & developed options for consumer facing products targeting specific speed ranges and improve performance for use in Triathlon and mountain bike XC racing. Developed cycling specific light weight body armor products for XC and Enduro riding significantly improving fit, articulation and breathability over current offerings in the market while still surpassing CE standards

Senior Designer

2009 – 2015

Led the New Balance Numeric design team including graphic, industrial designers and developers. • Created and implemented a multi-season development timeline. Developed brand strategy, branding, and logo. Shaped line plans based on market research for the launch of the brand. • Designed signature skate shoes for PJ Ladd, Arto Sari, and Levi Brown. Created capsule collections for specific events and retail partners. • Developed materials specific to the requirements in professional skateboarding including propitiatory out-sole technologies to reduce the risk of injuries.

Director Product Inovation

2011 – 2015

Led the New Balance Numeric design team including graphic, industrial designers and developers. • Created and implemented a multi-season development timeline. Developed brand strategy, branding, and logo. Shaped line plans based on market research for the launch of the brand. • Designed signature skate shoes for PJ Ladd, Arto Sari, and Levi Brown. Created capsule collections for specific events and retail partners. • Developed materials specific to the requirements in professional skateboarding including propitiatory out-sole technologies to reduce the risk of injuries.

Owner

2006 – 2011

Design Studio focused on product for the sporting goods industrie. Based in Austria.

Project Manager for Industrial Design

2001 – 2008

Project Manager and Junior Designer for all Product Categories.

1999 – 2001

BS Engineering

1994 – 1999

BS Engineering