Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Maria Valencia is an accomplished product development and innovation leader with expertise in the intimate apparel, medical device, and consumer goods industries. As the Director of Product Development and Founder of Fresh Comfort, Inc., she drives the development and commercialization of adaptive intimate apparel solutions that empower individuals with unique needs.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Director of Product Development and Founder of Fresh Comfort, Inc., Maria oversees all aspects of the company's product strategy, design, and development. She leverages her deep technical expertise and user-centric approach to create transformative intimate apparel products that improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities, chronic conditions, and other unique needs. Under her leadership, Fresh Comfort has become a recognized innovator in the adaptive intimate apparel market, delivering solutions that enhance comfort, functionality, and personal dignity.
Career Progression
Prior to founding Fresh Comfort, Maria held various technical design, quality assurance, and product management roles at industry-leading organizations, including House of Outdoors, BIOWORLD MERCHANDISING, JCPenney, and Medela, Inc. She has consistently demonstrated her ability to drive strategic product initiatives, optimize manufacturing processes, and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams to deliver impactful solutions.
Academic Background
Maria holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Textile and Apparel Management from the University of Missouri-Columbia, where she graduated with distinction.
Areas of Expertise
- Intimate apparel and medical device design and development
- Technical design, pattern making, and quality assurance
- User-centric product innovation and market analysis
- Supply chain management and continuous improvement
- Cross-functional team leadership and collaboration
Professional Impact
Throughout her career, Maria has spearheaded the development of numerous award-winning intimate apparel and medical device products that have positively impacted the lives of customers. Her innovative solutions have been recognized for their exceptional design, functionality, and ability to address the unique needs of underserved market segments.
Conclusion
With her extensive industry experience, technical expertise, and unwavering commitment to empowering individuals with unique needs, Maria is poised to continue driving transformative change in the intimate apparel and medical device industries. As the Director of Product Development and Founder of Fresh Comfort, Inc., she is dedicated to leveraging her passion and innovation to create inclusive, accessible, and high-quality products that enhance the well-being and independence of her customers.
