This year I turned a passion and hobby for facial hair into a small business startup. Detroit Beard Collective makes all-natural beard and facial hair maintenance and care products in the Detroit area. This past August we were nominated for the Martha Stewart American Made competition and named a finalist in the style category.

My bearding took root during my time at Michigan Tech. Being a member of the Phi Kappa Tau fraternity, a burly beard became standard issue to protect my face during the long nights erecting our massive snow statues for Winter Carnival and during my favorite outdoor activities (snowshoeing, hiking, mountain biking, snowboarding, and camping).

I didn’t realize until shortly after graduation that I had learned a versatile skill set both in and outside of the classroom. I developed communication skills through my involvement with Phi Kappa Tau, was a member of the paintball club, and acted as the director of the tournament team. I was able to hone my business abilities by managing team accounts with sponsors as well as marketing the team and its accomplishments to other potential sponsors. Needless to say, I owe a large part of my recent success to my time at Michigan Tech.

Martha Stewart American Made is a nationally recognized awards program that celebrates new rising stars who have turned their passions for handcrafted, well-designed, American-made goods into small businesses. On September 15, we’ll turn voting over to the larger Martha Stewart American Made community. Friends, family, and fans will have the opportunity to cast their vote for their favorite American maker. Ten American Made award winners will be announced on October 17: nine chosen by the judges and one by the audience.

To vote for me and support Detroit Beard Collective, visit http://www.marthastewart.com/americanmade/nominee/93186/style/detroit-beard-collective.

Check out www.detroitbeardcollective.com to see all of the quality products we currently offer.

Matt Pionk ‘08