Nerd, Engineer, Entrepreneur and Conservation Advocate
Gordon was born into a family deeply engrained in preserving our planet’s wildlife and ecosystems. Gordon was taught the importance of protecting the environment by relatives that were directly responsible for the rehabilitation of two nearly extinct species in the State of Michigan. Gordon carried those principles into his first business (web design) at the age of 14 by exclusively using data centers powered by wind and producing no printed materials. Gordon continued those practices with future companies, by making sure they were all carbon neutral, and even carbon negative at times.
Gordon’s current company DragonFly Refresh works to help companies of all sizes reduce their carbon footprint by recycling and refurbishing their electronics. DragonFly also consults with these clients to help them make more environmentally friendly purchases. The goal of DragonFly is to remain a carbon negative entity and have a 0% landfill policy.
Gordon started is entrepreneurial career by co-founding DF Webs, a web development company at the age of 14. The first project Gordon bid on was with the City of Perry, Gordon’s hometown. Gordon successfully outbid much more mature competitors, and the City of Perry remained a loyal client for nearly a decade. Because of his age at the time, several local news outlets interviewed Gordon, helping him gain additional contracts with other local governments, school districts, and businesses. Gordon ran the business for nearly 10 years, until the company was purchased by two of his former college professors.
After selling DF Webs, Gordon founded Just Smart Guys, a retailer with two locations offering the sale and repair of computers, phones, and other electronics. Just Smart Guys launched a recycling program that helped companies refurbish and recycle their electronics. This program was later spun off into its own company, DragonFly Refresh.
Gordon spends his free time outdoors, in nature. Gordon’s favorite hobby is backpacking Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and its various islands. When Gordon is not outdoors enjoying the wilderness, he is probably at home in his garage tinkering with various electronic gadgets.
Tyler is responsible for over seeing the warehouse and data sanitization operations. Tyler has a background in IT, security and electronics repair.
A Visionary Entrepreneur and Environmental Steward
Claude Bernard Pepin is a pioneering entrepreneur and visionary leader known for his exceptional ability to transform businesses into profitable enterprises. Currently, Claude is the minority partner and primary source of financing for DragonFly Refresh LLC, a forward-thinking company with an ambitious mission to build and maintain a carbon-negative operation while assisting clients in becoming more efficient and environmentally friendly. At the heart of this mission is the recycling of all technology devices, demonstrating his commitment to both innovation and sustainability.
Claude's entrepreneurial journey began in 1998 when he founded Tamarack ATV and UTV Accessories. This groundbreaking venture marked the inception of molded storage boxes for ATVs and UTVs. In just two short years, his products found their way into 1,500 ATV Motorcycle Stores across all 50 states. Within four years, Claude's reach extended to 12 countries, and Tamarack's popularity skyrocketed. The company's distinctive storage boxes made appearances on global hunting and fishing shows, gaining recognition on popular television programs like Baywatch and in the pit crews of prestigious racing events such as Grand Prix and NACS car racing.
Before Tamarack, Claude dedicated himself to direct sales at sports and hunting shows nationwide. His natural ability to connect with people, impressive sales acumen, and innate leadership skills made him a standout success in these endeavors. He is, first and foremost, a people person, making him the ideal leader for any enterprise.
Claude's passion extends beyond the world of business. He is an avid hunter and fisherman, channeling his love for the outdoors into meaningful philanthropic efforts. Claude generously donates fishing trips for children battling cancer, embodying his commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others. He also spends countless hours teaching people how to fish, spreading his knowledge, and fostering a deep appreciation for the natural world.
Claude's remarkable success is not solely attributed to his business acumen but also to his approach to leadership. In each of his enterprises, Claude empowers his employees to grow and make critical decisions. His commitment to fostering a nurturing and collaborative work environment demonstrates his dedication to both business and people.
Furthermore, Claude's recent venture, a Pizza Cafe in Howard City, MI, stands as a testament to his unwavering entrepreneurial spirit. Not only did he acquire and expand the cafe, but he also broadened its offerings, ultimately leading to a successful sale in 2022.
Claude Bernard Pepin is a remarkable entrepreneur who has crafted a career around his passions, enabling him to lead a life filled with adventure, philanthropy, and meaningful accomplishments. His journey is a testament to the power of dedication, leadership, and the pursuit of dreams, with a strong focus on creating positive change for the environment and the lives of others. Claude Bernard Pepin is, undoubtedly, a true visionary and a leader in every sense of the word.
