Joel Vandruff started with Academy Snowboards as a camper at Camp Academy in 2005 and has since turned himself into a sales rep extraordinaire! Technically savvy, artistic, customer service minded, and a skilled snowboarder, Joel has developed all the tools to master the sales game while keeping his ear to the streets, developing board graphics like the 2012 Rhythm, and inspiring the next generation of shredders and artists as a coach at Camp Academy.
Name:
Joel Vandruff
Position:
Sales Rep Extraordinaire, Customer Service Specialist, Board Graphic Styler
Where do you reside:
Roseville, California
Where do you ride:
Boreal and Tahoe’s Urban Districts
What’s your experience in the snowboard and skate industry:
I’ve been skateboarding for about 12 years and worked in the skatepark industry. I’ve snowboarded for 6 years and worked in snow/skate retail for 3 years so I understand the purchase process of kids inside the shops.
How did you first get involved with Academy Snowboards:
I was first introduced to JB and the team six years ago at Boreal’s JPI contest and signed up to be a camper at Camp Academy immediately after. With no other company had I been able to meet the founder, riders, family, and been acknowledged and treated with respect, especially as a grom. After a few board graphics and a serious stoke on the product I began getting involved in anyway possible.
Where would you like to see Academy Snowboards go in the future:
To strategically grow and continue helping and inspiring more and more kids. Something that really sets Academy Snowboards apart from other brands is their true connection to not only the snowboard community but local community as well. A genuine positive attitude and appreciation for all types of people is something I believe will always be blessed!
What does it mean to have your vision or artwork printed on the snowboard you ride:
It’s definitely a rewarding experience to say the least, especially if I see someone else with that board. It has always been a dream, especially as a kid walking into a boardshop and see tons of decks printed with all sorts of colors and concepts, a lot of times the art is what makes snowboarding different. Hopefully people can dig on the same inspiration and vibe and I’m very blessed to have not only the opportunity but positive feedback from my work.
Any tips for up-and-coming snowboard reps:
I think it’s super important to work with the brands and people you care about. It is not always about the latest ‘hype’ or highest promo budget. Knowing when you need to take that extra step the people and brand you are doing it for care and appreciate your hard work is something that has always kept me passionate about what I do and the customers I work with.
The 2012 Rhythm Series Designed by Joel Vandruff
The 2010 Rhythm Series Designed by Joel Vandruff
2009 Team Series Designed by Joel Vandruff
