Bio
Hi there! I’m an industrial designer and problem solver with more than 9 years of experience. My skills span the full product development process, from manufacturer sourcing, to research, sketching, CAD, and all the way through QC requirements and visiting factories in China. I’ve even tested the waters of the business world as an entrepreneur. My mission is to use design to leave this world a little better than I found it.
Currently, I’m looking for a new role, where I can drive business growth through customer-centered design.
Some words to describe me: hardworking, proactive, curious, communicative, collaborative, self-starter.
I live in the amazing city of Chicago. When I’m not designing, I’m playing guitar, biking by the lake, or heading to a funk concert.
Experience
Ridge // Chicago, IL (Remote) // Aug 2023 - Feb 2025
Industrial Designer
Grasshopper Gear // Chicago, IL // Aug 2021 - Aug 2024
Founder and CEO, launched successful Kickstarter
Donlin Design // Chicago, IL // Apr 2019 - Aug 2023
Industrial Design contractor working out of mHUB
Optimal Design // Chicago, IL // May 2017 - Apr 2019
Industrial Designer
511 Capital // Evanston, IL // Nov 2015 - Apr 2017
Industrial Designer
Catalyze Chicago // Chicago, IL // Jun 2015 - Nov 2015
Design Consultant; Freelancer
Testimonials
“I had the pleasure of managing Brian for a short period of time at Optimal Design, and quickly realized that he's extremely passionate about design, innovation, and life. He's a thoughtful problem solver who always keeps the target consumer/user top of mind. Brian is constantly improving himself and expanding his skillset, trying to learn as much as he possibly can about the design process and what it takes to create a successful product or service. That passion for knowledge makes him a valuable asset and teammate, and made my job of directing so much easier.”
—Chad Davis, Design Manager, Optimal Design
“Brian is an excellent industrial designer who brings a strong focus on user experience to his projects. During our time on the design team together at 511 Capital, he contributed functional, tactile, and beautiful work to a wide variety of durable and soft goods products. His talent is matched by his curiosity for digging into the details of unfamiliar industries and using new insights to inform his designs. You'll be glad you worked with him.”
—Charlie McArthur, Design Director, 511 Capital
“…an excellent designer, has a great approach and an positive/open mindset and brings innovative ideas to the table. I really enjoyed working with him when he was at Optimal.”
—Sajid Patel, CEO, Optimal Design
Education
University of Notre Dame // 2015
B.A. Industrial Design
IDEO U // Spring 2018
"Storytelling for Influence" course certificate
One more thing
I’m always looking to meet new people. Whether you want to learn more about my work, tell me about your big idea, or just want say hello, please reach out! I’d love to hear from you.