John Vajda

• Drove in-line and advanced concepts to production using sampling, rapid prototyping and CAD FEA
testing for lacrosse heads and pockets (injection molding, casting and die cutting), sticks (aluminum
extrusions, carbon fiber layups), and protective padding (patterning, cut & sew, cold compressed foam).
• Worked with overseas manufacturers and engineers to problem solve new processes, sourcing, and
manufacturing methods along with communicating and traveling to manufacturers for in-line products.
• Presented new products to sales and marketing, along with recording content for social media.
• Collaborated with the design team to create category design themes for cohesive branding and aesthetics.
• Worked with athletes to develop innovative solutions and conduct product testing to ensure the
athlete’s wants and needs were met for safety, fit, design, and performance improvements.

• Lead designer for new mobile accessory product lines including cases, chargers, battery backups,
earphones, and cable management for in house brands and AT&T.
• Developed processes to improve design/manufacturing communications with Chinese factories.
• Created the new Ventev packaging and branded graphic design system.
• Led a design workshop to promote multidisciplinary group brainstorming and ideation.

(Business Closed 2010)
• Developed the SweetskinZ product line from concept to manufacturing and packaging, including new
technologies for printing and vulcanizing rubber graphics and reflective print onto tires and shoe soles.
• Partnered with Goodyear, Michelin, Puma and Ecco to develop innovative products and branding solutions.
• Traveled to Thailand (50% year) to manage product development, manufacturing, quality control, and training.
• Improved product quality by setting guidelines and standards for QC for future ISO certification.
• Collaborated with marketing team to develop and design the company branding system and website.

• 18 Month tour in Bayji, Iraq with A co. 1-111th, Infantry as team leader. June 2004– November 2005
• Trained Iraqi Army personnel and performed various anti-insurgency missions.
• Mapped the Forward Operating Base (FOB) and points of interest.
• Provided a monthly comic strip for troop morale.