The Vision Behind the Design
I believe that great design doesn't just solve a functional problem—it honors the entire lifecycle of a product. My work is rooted in a “solo traveler” spirit: a drive for curiosity, technical exploration, and the grit to carry a project from the first sketch to the global stage.
The projects that excite me most are the ones that seem just a little impossible—the ones that require curiosity, collaboration, and persistence to transform ambitious ideas into something people can hold, use, and experience.
From Concept to Production Reality
I specialize in end-to-end product development, bridging design intent with manufacturing execution across softgoods and wearable systems. My work spans concept definition, prototyping, materials selection, technical documentation, supplier collaboration, and production readiness.
Most recently, I led the development of a product featured on Shark Tank (Season 17)—managing design iteration, CMF and technical documentation, supply chain coordination, and final production execution under real-world manufacturing constraints.
How I Work
My process is systems-driven and execution-focused. I translate early-stage ideas into structured, manufacturable products by aligning design, engineering, and supplier realities into a cohesive development workflow.
I focus on:
End-to-end product development from concept through manufacturing
Softgoods and wearable systems design with an emphasis on durability and performance
Material selection and construction strategy informed by lifecycle thinking
Technical documentation that enables clear execution across global teams
Supplier collaboration to align intent with real-world production constraints
Sourcing Team
Tailored Manufacturing: I match your product with the right factory using my established network of trusted global partners.
Tri-Regional Reach: My sourcing connections span the USA, near-shore CSA, and key overseas manufacturing hubs in Vietnam, China, and India.
Design Philosophy
I am deeply committed to lifecycle-driven design—creating products that prioritize longevity, responsible material use, and real-world performance. My approach integrates durability, traceability, and thoughtful material selection to reduce waste and improve long-term product outcomes.
Community & Mentorship
I believe in “designing it forward.” I actively support emerging designers through mentorship and knowledge-sharing rooted in real-world product development, manufacturing, and systems thinking. My focus is on helping others navigate the gap between design intent and production reality.
Outside the Studio
When I’m not working through product systems or manufacturing challenges, you’ll usually find me in Denver with a sketchbook—observing, decompressing, and translating everyday moments into creative exploration.
Let’s Build the Future Together
I’m always open to conversations around product innovation, material-driven design, and collaborative development work that bridges design and manufacturing systems.
Learn more about my career at https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-donen/
TESTIMONIALS
"Samantha has proven to be a top-notch professional, a fantastic innovator, designer, and creative engineer. Our team at STOMP was deeply impressed by the speed and quality of her work."
— David Gonzales
Founder & CEO at STOMP Athletics
Founder & CEO at STOMP Athletics
"Samantha is very knowledgeable and talented in her profession. From the initial concept all the way through the process, she explained quite clearly what was going to happen. I would highly recommend her and hire her again."
— Dr. Eleazer Okwor-Ojwang
Founder of AMOGIE
Founder of AMOGIE
Let's Continue the Conversation
Many of my projects were developed under confidential client agreements, so only a portion of the work can be shared publicly. If you're interested in seeing additional research, design iterations, prototypes, engineering documentation, or production development for my work on specific project(s), I'd be happy to share more during a private portfolio review.
Please reach out using the contact form below.
Thank you!