About

Russell is our founder and CCBW (Chief Cook and Bottle Washer). He plays a very active role in guiding Gear re-Store’s identity and growth as he is able to call upon his diverse range of career and life experiences. Russell earned his Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Manitoba, went on to complete a Master of Business Administration from Queen’s University, and then completed his training and was a Certified Management Accountant from October, 1991 to September, 2018.

Russell has direct experience with companies large and small, private and public, and in a variety of industries, but eventually his passion for innovation and business collided with his love for the outdoors, and so began Gear re-Store. Russell is actively involved with family and community and enjoys hiking, camping in the mountains, trying to figure out how to grow tomatoes, and tinkering with his electronic accordion with MIDI setup (ask, but only if you really want to know!)

“Jack of all trades, master of none; but better than a master of one” is how Mark found his way into the warranty repair industry. His commitment to the environment, sustainability, and right to repair make him a perfect fit for Gear re-Store. Mark has initiated recycling programs at multiple past employers and volunteer organizations. Mark is always thinking of ways to reduce waste and re-use resources whenever possible.  His experience in event planning, project management, and costume making make him a great fit for General Manager. Mark came to Gear re-Store by way of Cubic Dissection, a small puzzle making company where he managed the shipping and receiving department. 

Mark is an avid camper and often finds himself living in extreme climates and weather patterns. Mark also has a passion for music as he is working on producing dance music and still performs as a DJ when the opportunity arises. 

“Work like you don’t need the money, love like you have never been hurt, and dance like no one is watching!” – Unknown/debated

Angelica Gonzales is the Human Resources Manager for Gea re-Store. She studied Entrepreneurship at Metropolitan State University. Angelica started working with Gear re-Store as a seamstress. As the HR Manager she is responsible for all areas of HR including recruiting, onboarding, training, employee relations, leadership development, and benefits.

She has sound knowledge of sewing techniques, and construction of outdoor gear, which allows her to understand Gear re-Store’s needs and help recruit candidates.

In her experience with Gear re-Store she has learned the importance of understanding the employees’ needs. Her goal is to help develop and support the Gear re-Store team, as well as educate the importance of restoring gear.

Born and raised in Colorado, Angelica loves spending her time with her dog and husband, off-roading, and camping. When she’s not in the mountains she spends her time sewing and sharing her love for sustainable fashion by managing an online thrift shop.

Esme is our East Coast-Philadelphia based Site Supervisor. She has worked in the sewing and design industry for over 15 years. She started with a degree in Visual Arts from Antioch College and followed with a more focused degree in Fashion Design from Jefferson University in Philadelphia. She fell in love with Philadelphia and decided to make it her home. She began as an urban menswear designer and continued creating everything from licensed costumes for mass distribution and stage productions, as well as bridal gowns to leather handbags. Her flexibility and broad range of experiences makes her a great match for our location in Philadelphia.

Esme spends her time off with her two dogs. She enjoys working on her home and upcycling everything from clothing to electronics to create works of art. She has used her love of plant as inspiration for building large scale planters out of material waste from local manufacturers. 

A west suburban Illinois native, Alicia’s love for art and fashion started with sketching designs at a young age, following with sewing classes. Her passion and ambition followed all throughout high school and into college. She graduated in 2017 with a bachelor’s degree of Fine Arts in Fashion Design the Illinois Institute of Art – Schaumburg. Her knowledge is proficient in technical design, technical drawing, draping, garment construction and alterations.

She moved from Illinois at the end of 2018 to begin her new adventure in Colorado. Since her move, she has been spending her time in both the mountains and the city, experiencing the best of both. On her down time, she loves playing video games, drawing, and sewing garments inspired by movies and TV shows she likes. She enjoys spending time with her boyfriend and two sweet kittens, Zelda and Link.

Kaylee brings over three years of professional experience in the garment industry to Gear re-Store, with a background in both manufacturing and on set tailoring. Before joining us, she served as a production manager at an apparel manufacturing facility, handling contracts with TSA, Nordstrom, and the U.S. Military. Kaylee’s expertise in large-scale production is matched by her extensive hands-on experience in garment repair and tailoring. Her keen eye for detail and craftsmanship makes her a perfect fit for her position at Gear re-Store. Outside of work, Kaylee indulges in creative pursuits in fine arts and fashion, strives to perfect her matcha-making skills, and cherishes time with her loved ones.

Jeff Kimmel is the developer of Gear re-Store’s RFID technology, GEAR TRACER. He is a proven leader in developing and bringing new products to market. Jeff developed extensive entrepreneurial skills while working for the company HCSS. There he developed experience working with all key stakeholders, including prospects, to bring multiple products to market successfully. His innovative and keen business mind led him to develop the RFID software that is now an integral part of Gear re-Store.