Jake Burton Carpenter, born on April 29, 1954, in New York City, NY, had a passion for skiing from a young age. He was a competitive skier who had dreams of becoming a professional in the sport.
However, his skiing career was abruptly ended by a car accident that left him unable to continue skiing competitively. This setback could have been devastating, but Jake saw it as an opportunity to pursue a new passion - snowboarding.
Not content to just snowboard for fun, Jake saw potential in the Snurfer snowboard design and set out to improve it. He was determined to create a better, more durable snowboard that would revolutionize the sport.
In 1977, Jake founded Burton Snowboards, a company that would go on to become a powerhouse in the snowboarding industry. With his innovative designs and commitment to quality, Burton Snowboards quickly gained a loyal following and became a leader in the market.
Throughout his journey as an entrepreneur, Jake found love and support in his girlfriend Donna. The couple married and had a son, Tim, who would eventually follow in his father's footsteps in the snowboarding world.
One of the key moments in Burton Snowboard's success was the partnership with athlete Shaun White. White became a spokesperson for the company, bringing even more visibility and credibility to the brand.
Jake Burton Carpenter's legacy extends far beyond the snowboarding world. He was not just an entrepreneur, but a visionary who saw possibilities where others saw limitations. His dedication to his craft and his willingness to take risks have inspired countless others to follow their passions and never give up.
Today, Burton Snowboards is a $100 million-dollar company that continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in snowboarding. Jake's impact on the sport and the industry will be felt for years to come, a true testament to his determination and innovation.