By Emmariah Holcomb, ’14
ST. BONAVENTURE, N.Y. — Students in Dr. Mike Russell’s product management class went to Zippo headquarters in Bradford, Pa., on Wednesday, Sept. 19.
According to Russell, students heard from Chris Funk, outdoor product marketing manager, who described the process that Zippo uses in developing new products for the marketplace. His presentation focused on the outdoor line of products that Zippo is unveiling during the next year.
“I loved the presentation for camping products,” Brittney Weeks, a senior English major said. “I wanted to pack up and go to the Adirondacks and use everything you showed us.”
Linda Meabon, the Zippo Museum curator, historian and collector club liaison, made event arrangements. Students were also able to visit a Zippo Concept Store.
“I was completely blown away when we were introduced to the Zippo Concept Store,” Greg Horvath, a senior marketing major, said. “I think the line will be wildly successful in the United States and overseas.”
The trip informed students about different opportunities a marketing career could afford someone. Kathryn Kvas, a senior journalism and mass communication major, said that the trip was helpful in her project about learning how to develop products.
“The opportunity for students to see a local company using the best practices in product development enriches their education and helps prepare them for careers in business,” Russell said. “We are very thankful for Zippo and other companies in our region who are setting world class standards and sharing their experiences with our students.”
Students who attended include Chase Cambria, Greg Horvath, Kathryn Kvas, Ivan Rodriquez, Jonathan Garbin, Brian O'Neill, Luke Worlock, Nick Dermigay, Elana Gonzalez, Charlee Smith and Brittany Weeks.