NAME: Francine Provencal
POSITION AT HMG: R&D Prototype Stitcher
YEARS WITH HMG: 15
PRODUCTS YOU’VE WORKED ON: All of them. From the first Windrider to products launching in 2025.
WHAT’S YOUR BACKGROUND PRIOR TO WORKING HERE?
I was born in Canada. My grandmother taught me how to sew. I was looking for a sewing job and saw an ad in the paper. I interviewed with Mike and have been here ever since. At first, Mike and I met every morning in a small office he rented and asked, “What should we make today?” The first products I sewed were prototype hip belts, pockets, and shoulder straps. One of the first orders we fulfilled was a bunch of tote bags. From there, we moved on to the famous Windrider. I learned to trace patterns and cut and do much more than sewing.
Other than sewing, I enjoy crocheting, reading, and spending time with my grandson.
And red licorice.
WHAT’S YOUR PRIMARY ROLE IN R&D?
My role as a prototype stitcher means that I sew together all prototype products throughout the product design and development cycle. I work closely with the product designers to produce the samples and give feedback on construction and manufacturability to make it easier for our factory in Mexico.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT BEING IN R&D?
My coworkers and the fact that I get to sew every day.
WHAT DESIGN / DESIGN SOLUTION ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF THUS FAR?
I don’t really have a favorite product; I like them all. I do like the Daybreak pack.
FROM YOUR EARLIEST DAYS AT HYPERLITE MOUNTAIN GEAR TO TODAY, HOW HAS GEAR CHANGED?
The products haven’t changed too much, but they have been refined and become more manufacturable. Additionally, the design strategy of new products has been more modern.
WHAT’S YOUR NUMBER ONE TIP FOR MAKING YOUR GEAR LAST LONGER?
Take care of it. We see a lot of repairs that could have been prevented with proper care.
