POST FALLS, ID— Buck Knives, America’s leading brand of cutlery for outdoor enthusiasts, announces the hiring of Drew Stephens as the company’s Director of Engineering and New Product Development.

Stephens brings more than sixteen years of professional design experience to his new duties. After his graduation from the University of Idaho with a degree in mechanical engineering, Stephens began his career designing manufacturing equipment and consumer products. For eight years, he worked as a Design Engineer and Product Development Manager for Sims Vibration Laboratory developing outdoor products and accessories in the archery and firearms industries. Drew Stephens’ professional skills include: product design, injection mold design, CNC programming, and Engineering Management. He works collaboratively with production, marketing, and other departments for an interdisciplinary approach to company success.

“We’re very pleased to have Drew leading our new product development team,” says Lane Tobiassen, Buck Knives’ President. “We look forward to expanding our new product offerings under his leadership.” Buck Knives currently offers more than 100 knife models to meet numerous cutlery challenges.

Stephens grew up in North Idaho and then relocated back there in 2015. He spent the last seven years working as the Director of Research and Development for Tedder Industries. There, as a member of the company’s executive team, he managed a team of engineers and helped develop and expand new consumer brands and products that contributed to tripling gross sales.

“I’m thrilled to be a part of the team here at Buck,” said Drew Stephens. “I’ve been carrying Buck Knives for years and on many adventures. I am so excited to join the New Product Development team and to be a positive force toward the continued success of a brand with such an amazing legacy.”

Stephens is an avid outdoorsman and loves backpacking, hunting, whitewater kayaking, and rafting. He met his wife while both were in college and they have three children plus an Airedale terrier. Stephens and his family love to spend time together outdoors, especially boating and traveling. During the last few years, his family has also hosted two exchange students. He is involved in his community as a volunteer official for a local club swim team, as an active member and clerk for his church congregation, and as a supporter of the arts. He also loves to participate in and lead local whitewater kayaking events.

ABOUT BUCK KNIVES: For more than 120 years, Buck Knives has been handcrafting the finest quality knives and tools, which are designed specifically for hunters, anglers, outdoorsmen, and knife enthusiasts alike. Using the highest-quality materials and state-of-the-art processes, like the exclusive Bos heat treatment for blades, Buck Knives are built to perform at the highest level and last for generations. Located in Post Falls, Idaho, and employing more than 320 people, Buck Knives is proud to make knives in America and stand behind them with their Forever Warranty. Visit www.buckknives.com or call 800-735-2825 for more information. Design and build a custom knife also via the website.