Professional Summary
Professional Overview
Will Watters is the Founder and Creative Director of Western Rise, a Colorado-based outdoor apparel and gear company. With a diverse background spanning product development, outdoor instruction, and entrepreneurship, Watters brings a unique perspective to the outdoor industry, fusing technical expertise with creative vision.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Founder and Creative Director of Western Rise, Watters is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the company's product development, brand strategy, and creative direction. Under his leadership, Western Rise has established itself as a premier provider of high-performance, sustainable outdoor apparel and equipment, earning recognition from industry publications and a growing consumer base.
Career Progression
Prior to founding Western Rise, Watters held various roles that honed his skills in product development, outdoor recreation, and entrepreneurship. He served as the Director of New Product Development at Syntec Industries, where he spearheaded the design and launch of several successful product lines. Watters also gained hands-on experience as a ski instructor at Vail Resorts and Perisher Blue Pty Ltd, as well as a fly fishing guide at Fly Fishing Outfitters, giving him a deep understanding of the outdoor enthusiast's needs and preferences.
Academic Background
Watters holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Colorado Boulder, where he specialized in Environmental Studies and Outdoor Leadership. His academic achievements, combined with his practical experiences, have provided him with a well-rounded foundation to lead Western Rise's innovative product development and brand strategy.
Areas of Expertise
- Outdoor product design and development
- Materials science and sustainable manufacturing
- Outdoor recreation and adventure sports
- Entrepreneurship and brand building
- Creative direction and visual storytelling
Professional Impact
Under Watters' leadership, Western Rise has become a respected and award-winning outdoor brand, known for its commitment to sustainability, technical performance, and innovative design. The company's products have been featured in leading outdoor publications, and Watters has been recognized for his contributions to the industry through his involvement in industry organizations and public speaking engagements.
Conclusion
With his extensive experience, industry expertise, and creative vision, Will Watters is poised to continue driving the growth and success of Western Rise as a leader in the outdoor apparel and gear market. Combining his technical know-how with a deep passion for the outdoors, Watters is committed to delivering exceptional products and experiences that inspire and empower adventurers of all kinds.