Starting my own business wasn’t something I expected to do, but it feels like the natural next step in my journey. I’ve always been a problem-solver, someone who loves to create solutions that can improve the way people live, work, and play. For years, I worked as a project manager for some of the biggest companies in the world—Intel, Roche, and Exyte (M+W Group)—but when I think back, I realize I was always drawn to the idea of building something of my own. That idea eventually turned into Big Sky Campers, my custom car camper company, and it’s been one of the most exciting, challenging, and rewarding experiences of my life.
The Beginning: From Engineering to Project Management
Growing up, I was always surrounded by science. My father is a metallurgical engineer, and my mom was a chemist, so I was encouraged to be curious about how things work from an early age. I spent a lot of time tinkering with gadgets, asking questions, and solving problems—whether it was fixing something around the house or diving deep into school projects. Engineering felt like a natural fit for me when I chose to pursue it in college.
After finishing my degree in Chemical Engineering at the University of Arizona, I worked in the corporate world, where I was able to apply my skills to larger projects. I spent nearly a decade managing complex engineering projects at companies like Intel, Roche, and Exyte. I loved the problem-solving aspect of my job. I found it fascinating to lead teams and manage large-scale projects that required careful planning and execution. The work was intense and demanding, but I thrived on it.
However, after a while, something started to shift inside me. As much as I enjoyed my career, I couldn’t ignore a growing desire to build something for myself, something that would allow me to take control of my future in a way that a corporate job simply couldn’t. I wanted to combine my engineering skills with my love for adventure, the outdoors, and my creative side. This is when the idea of Big Sky Camp Co. began to take shape.
Discovering My Passion for Camping and Adventure
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been an outdoor enthusiast. Whether it was spending time on the water kayaking or biking through the mountains, I’ve always found peace and joy in nature. Camping, in particular, has always been something close to my heart. I love the sense of freedom it brings—the opportunity to escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse myself in the beauty of the world around me.
As much as I enjoyed camping, I was frustrated by the lack of options when it came to camper setups. Many of the available campers were either too bulky, uncomfortable, or didn’t offer the kind of customization I wanted. I realized there had to be a better way—something that combined the ease of car camping with the comfort and efficiency of a custom setup. The idea of creating my own line of campers was born.
From Idea to Reality: Launching Big Sky Camp Co.
Starting a business from scratch was both thrilling and intimidating. I knew I had the skills from my engineering and project management experience, but the entrepreneurial world was new to me. I took the leap anyway, and I’m so glad I did. In 2023, I founded Tucson Camper Co., which I later renamed Big Sky Camp Co. The name reflects the wide-open spaces I love so much—the freedom to explore without limits, something I wanted to capture in the camper designs.
The vision for Big Sky Camp Co. was simple: to create custom car camper setups that allow people to experience the outdoors without sacrificing comfort or convenience. I wanted to provide an option that was as unique as each customer’s adventure. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or embarking on a cross-country road trip, Big Sky Camp Co. offers a high-quality, personalized setup that makes outdoor living more accessible and enjoyable.
Building the business has been an exciting learning experience. I’ve had to wear many hats—designer, builder, marketer, and customer service rep—but each step has helped me grow both personally and professionally. I’ve learned to embrace the challenges of entrepreneurship, especially in a competitive market, and I’ve gained a new appreciation for the hard work that goes into making a business successful.
The Rewarding Part: Helping Others Explore the Outdoors
One of the most fulfilling aspects of Big Sky Camp Co. has been the ability to help others explore the world in a way that’s comfortable, convenient, and fun. The feedback I’ve received from customers has been incredibly rewarding. Hearing how a custom camper setup has enhanced their camping experiences—whether it’s through improved sleep, better organization, or the freedom to travel without worrying about gear—reminds me why I started this journey in the first place.
I’ve also been able to tap into my love for philanthropy and advocacy through my work. I’ve always been passionate about causes I believe in, and I’ve applied this mindset to my business. One of my goals is to make Big Sky Camp Co. a brand that not only provides a great product but also gives back to the community. It’s important to me that my company reflects the values of sustainability and social responsibility, which I’ve been committed to throughout my career.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Big Sky Campers
As I look ahead, I’m excited about the potential of Big Sky Campers. There’s so much room for growth, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me. I hope to expand our offerings, reach more people who love the outdoors, and continue to innovate in ways that make camping more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Starting Big Sky Camp Co. has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to combine my engineering background with my passion for adventure. It hasn’t been easy, but the hard work has paid off in ways I never imagined. Every day, I’m excited to wake up and get to work on something that brings me so much joy—helping people experience the great outdoors in a new and exciting way.