Meet Our Superheroes

Colin Israel

“The Oracle”
Colin brings 25 years of executive leadership across the apparel and footwear industry, having served as CEO, CFO, COO, CIO, and GM of Asia. With a foundation in strategy and risk consulting at Deloitte and deep global experience in Europe and Asia, he’s known for scaling operations and aligning business systems for growth. When he’s not optimizing companies, he’s dreaming of ski days and van life with his pups.

Walter Wilhelm

“The Overwatch”
With over three decades of executive leadership across industries, Walter stands above the noise, observing, anticipating, and guiding with precision. A master of enterprise transformation, he restructures chaos into clarity through calm strategy and hard-earned wisdom. Whether addressing a boardroom or climbing predawn peaks with his dogs, The Overwatch is always where he’s needed most — watching, waiting, and ready.

Alex Hanna

"The Trailblazer"

Alex transforms big ideas into real-world results, blending creativity with precision across the full product lifecycle. With a decade of experience in merchandise planning, product development, and lifecycle management, she helps businesses streamline processes and deliver what customers truly want. At Black Ink, she connects strategy to execution—turning vision into value.

Amanda Lawrence

"The Refiner"

With over a decade of experience in the apparel industry, Amanda brings precision and clarity to every stage of product and material development. A master Centric admin, she bridges the gap between product teams and vendors, streamlining workflows with calm efficiency. Known for her sharp eye and steady hand, she transforms chaotic processes into clean, high-performance systems. Outside of mission mode, she recharges over craft coffee, dinner parties, and quality time with her favorite people.

Amy Mitchell

"The Integrator"

Amy is known for her uncanny ability to anticipate business needs before they surface, making her a go-to for proactive strategy and seamless execution. Her strength lies in solving complex challenges with creativity, resourcefulness, and calm focus. At Black Ink, she helps clients stay ahead of the curve by aligning smart solutions with evolving goals.

Brandon Gray

"The Wizard"

With nearly 15 years in engineering and technical consulting, Brandon quietly brings complex systems to life—designing solutions that feel like magic. His experience spans hardgoods, telecommunications, IT implementation, and cybersecurity, making him a versatile problem-solver across industries. Brandon enjoys stargazing with his telescope and hanging out with his two rescue cats.

Camille Palmer

"The Digital Alchemist"

Camille turns complex analog workflows into streamlined digital solutions, blending strategy, technology, and hands-on product creation expertise. With over 15 years in Technical Design and leadership roles at PVH and Gap Inc., she’s helped global teams adopt 3D workflows and reduce time to market. A frequent industry speaker and process innovator, she also finds joy in Mah Jong, NASCAR, and community service.

Candice Louie

"The Connector"

Candice is a proven apparel industry leader with 20+ years of experience helping globally recognized brands navigate complexity, connect teams, processes, and technology, and turn strategy into results. With expertise across supply chain, sourcing, production, and data governance, she brings a collaborative approach to driving change, innovation, and operational excellence. Outside of work, she enjoys family travel, Pilates, NY sports, K-dramas, reality TV, ‘90s hip hop, and BTS (ARMY forever).

Clark Bailey

"The Gearshift"

Clark brings 15 years of global experience in engineering and product leadership, with a talent for breaking down complex systems and driving improvements through technology, tools, and people. He’s launched products across diverse categories—from eyewear to outdoor lighting. When he’s not solving business problems, you’ll find him off-grid fishing, skiing, or snowmobiling.

David Castellanos

"The Playmaker"

David is a Senior Solutions Architect and Centric PLM expert with 10+ years of experience leading digital transformations for global retail and consumer goods brands. He brings a unique blend of business strategy and technical expertise, translating complex requirements into scalable solutions, integrating enterprise platforms, and driving adoption across global organizations. Outside of Black Ink, David enjoys golfing, baseball, and hiking the Appalachian mountains with his family and pup.

Dylan Breen

"The Mind Walker"

Dylan helps organizations look beyond surface-level symptoms to uncover the root causes of inefficiency, friction, and operational risk. With expertise across enterprise systems, integrations, AI-driven engagement, and data-driven operations, he excels at connecting the dots, navigating complexity, and turning complex challenges into actionable solutions. Outside of Black Ink, Dylan is building his own local AI lab and finding clarity on the trail while backpacking through Yosemite.

Evan Chad

"The Tranquil Resonance"

In a world rushing to react, Evan moves with intention. He channels memory, presence, and clarity into a steady force that adapts to any challenge, a living ripple of patience and insight. Absorbing complexity and connecting dots others miss, he calmly reshapes the outcome. Whether Evan’s shaping AI workflows or surfing glassy morning sets, his rhythm stays the same: balanced, present, and unstoppable.

Hayley Douglas

"The Pacemaker"

Hayley brings 15 years of experience across U.S. policy, fashion, and tech, combining strategic thinking with operational precision to keep client engagements moving forward with purpose. She approaches every project with the same discipline she brings to race day: focused, efficient, and always thinking a few steps ahead. Outside of work, she’s logging miles and researching her next post-race meal.

Janet Ramirez

"The Empathy Navigator"

Janet brings over 20 years of experience in ERP, CRM, and PLM, guiding organizations through complex change with a hands-on, people-first approach. Known for creating emotionally safe environments, she helps teams navigate transitions with empathy, clarity, and trust. Outside of work, she finds joy in family adventures, photography, and meaningful moments with loved ones.

Jaya Hall

"The Flash Analyzer"

With 15+ years of experience in PLM, ERP, and supply chain systems, Jaya quickly identifies challenges and delivers sharp, strategic solutions across the apparel and consumer goods industries. She’s known for her executive presence, fast analysis, and ability to align teams without breaking a sweat—or opening a slide deck. Outside of work, she travels the world in search of great food and new adventures.

Jessie Ozone

"The Visionary"

With over 15 years of experience as a Designer and Design Director, Jessie blends imagination and strategy to turn obstacles into innovative solutions across textiles, apparel, and accessories. She sees connections others miss, bringing clarity and harmony to complex creative challenges. Outside of work, she’s a proud mom, world traveler, and Taekwondo black belt.

Julia Gregory

"The Catalyst"

Julia brings 18 years of experience across sales, IT operations, business analytics, merchandising, PLM, process optimization, and product management within the consumer goods and retail industries, with experience spanning both the U.S. and Europe. Outside of work, she lives in Arkansas with her husband, two children, and two cats. She enjoys rainy days, hiking the Austrian Alps, board games, public policy and local advocacy, and teaching herself to play guitar—badly, for now.

Luis Cruz

"The FrostSight"

With a calm presence that can defuse any flare-up, Luis brings clarity to chaos. Gifted with the power of precognition, he sees potential problems before they arise—then quietly reroutes them with precision and poise. Whether coding solutions or crafting wood with intention, his mind is always one step ahead. Cool-headed, forward-thinking, and endlessly resourceful, FrostSight is the steady force every team needs.

Megan Malveaux

"The Hexecutor"

With a sharp eye for bottlenecks and redundancies, Megan transforms complex operations into streamlined systems that boost productivity and performance. She brings proven success in supply chain, forecasting, and business operations, consistently delivering strategic solutions that drive results. Outside the office, she’s the dessert-loving, Harry Potter–defending aunt you want on your team—just don’t test her with any wizarding slander.

Nicci Emery

"The Iron Grace"

With 20 years of experience across footwear and apparel, Nicci brings a steady, strategic presence to product management, licensing, and business development. Her ability to build strong relationships and guide clients through change with confidence makes her a trusted partner in any transformation. Off the field, she’s a CrossFit coach, soccer goalie, and Olympic weightlifting enthusiast who thrives under pressure—just like in her work.

Owen Canterbury

"The Automator"

Owen doesn’t just work faster; he builds the systems that do the work for him. From financial modeling to competitor analysis, he creates autonomous digital agents, or Droyds, that outperform traditional workflows. Equal parts strategist and builder, Owen turns operations into orchestration, layering intelligence with precision. When he’s off the clock, you’ll find him watching game highlights or playing spikeball—still optimizing, even when he’s having fun.

Peyton Newell

"The Flexion"

Peyton moves fluidly across product categories and industries, bringing versatile expertise in wetsuits, outdoor gear, and sports licensing to every project. With degrees in Product Development, Manufacturing, and Business, she leads global go-to-market strategies, sustainable sourcing, and vendor management with precision. Outside of work, she’s either flowing through yoga, planning her next adventure, or cheering loudly for her football team with her pup Winnie.

Rachel Nee

"The Unifier"

Rachel builds trust and collaboration across teams, using her gift for connection to drive alignment and lasting change. With experience leading large-scale PLM and ERP initiatives at Gap, Banana Republic, and more, she turns complex transitions into smooth success stories. Outside of work, she’s a passionate traveler and foodie, always in search of her next great meal.

Sam Svedlund

"The Shapeshifter"

With over a decade in outdoor, footwear, and apparel, Sam leads with adaptability and innovation—turning complexity into streamlined processes and big ideas into reality. Backed by a Master’s in Industrial Design, she excels in material and product development, supply chain optimization, and systems implementation. Outside the hustle, Sam’s chasing sunshine, mountain peaks, and dreams of cycling the globe.

Sarah Nagley

"The Sentinel"

With over a decade of experience as a PLM admin and consultant, Sarah is the ultimate Centric expert—recalling every version, workflow, and decision with steel-trap precision. Known for poking holes in flawed processes and locking in airtight solutions, she ensures every implementation is built to last. A founding Black Ink team member, legendary Swiftie, and dog mom to Silver, Sarah brings clarity, humor, and heart to every project.

Shannan Kisiel

"The Architect"

Shannan blends software consulting expertise with real-world product lifecycle experience to design solutions that are both efficient and future-ready. With a background in design, development, and sourcing, she builds strong systems and even stronger client relationships. Outside of work, she’s a dedicated mom, youth leader, and plant-loving problem solver—just don’t forget to ask her about the stuffies’ names.

Shannon Miranda

"The Conductor"

Shannon brings nearly a decade of experience in product management and PLM, helping align people, processes, and technology to drive successful transformation. She has led Centric PLM design and implementation for a global grocery retailer, collaborating with teams across 10+ countries and four continents. Shannon brings a practical perspective to helping clients turn complex needs into solutions that work for the people using them. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, cooking, golf, and adult gymnastics.

Shashank Easwar

"The Gadget Guy"

Shashank recently earned his Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Austin, complemented by internships at Procter & Gamble and Stryker. He brings a diverse technical skill set spanning Python, Java, C++, Power BI, and Arduino, along with a growing passion for AI and its impact on the business landscape. Shashank is a versatile team player ready to jump in wherever he’s needed to solve problems and deliver results. Outside of work, he enjoys sports, travel, and staying active.

Shelley Crawford

"The Synergizer"

With over 20 years in technical design, operations, and program management, Shelley leads transformative initiatives that drive efficiency, growth, and lasting impact. Her natural ability to connect with people and navigate complex dynamics makes her a trusted partner through change. Off the clock, she recharges in the Florida sun—hammock-bound, surrounded by her thriving plant family.

Sophia Wilhelm

"The Curator"

Able to absorb and distill knowledge at lightning speed, Sophia is a living database of insight, always learning, always evolving. With a mind built for synthesis and a passion for precision, she transforms complexity into clarity — whether in academic research, customer systems, or the studio. Her artistic eye gives her an edge few can match, blending creativity with cold data like a master alchemist. Quietly powerful, The Curator turns information into impact — faster than most can turn a page.

Tommy Thompson

"The Codemixer"

With a background in environmental engineering and a mind wired for pattern recognition, Tommy transforms chaotic data into golden insight—often before clients know what they need. His experience spans everything from coding microcontrollers to automating workflows that preserve team sanity. Off the clock, he’s a South Jersey-based dad who unwinds with stressful video games, animal cuddles, and mixology experiments he barely drinks.

Vandra Lochridge

"The Taskmaster"

With more than 20 years of experience in apparel retail, Vandra combines business expertise, technical knowledge, and exceptional execution to lead complex initiatives from concept to completion. Backed by an MBA and extensive experience with Atlassian tools, she is known for her precision, accountability, and ability to turn challenges into actionable solutions. Outside of work, Vandra enjoys playing pickleball, traveling with her husband, and spoiling their three cats, Peyton, Pixel, and Penny.

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