Today we’d like to introduce you to Tyler J. Chartier
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Patriot Packs started as a passion project inspired by a deep desire to give back to the veteran community while solving a practical problem. Growing up in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, where winters are notoriously harsh, I learned early on the importance of staying warm during those long, bitterly cold months. When the Air Force brought me to Utah, I saw similar challenges with the winter climate and a growing need for reliable hand warmers among outdoor enthusiasts, workers, and families.
At the same time, I felt a strong calling to support veterans, knowing the challenges many of them face when transitioning back into civilian life. That’s when the idea struck me: why not combine a product people genuinely need with a mission that makes a real difference?
From there, Patriot Packs was born. We committed to creating premium hand warmers while dedicating a portion of our proceeds to veteran support initiatives like the Homeless Veterans Fellowship in Ogden, and the Utah Honor Flight. Over the past year, thanks to the support of our customers and the community, we’ve grown into more than just a business – we’re a movement dedicated to warmth, service, and gratitude.
Today, our team is small but mighty — primarily myself and another Air Force veteran, Trinity, who I served with overseas. Patriot Packs is proud to not only provide comfort to our customers but also give back to those who’ve given so much for our freedom.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Like any entrepreneurial journey, the road to building Patriot Packs has had its share of challenges. Getting support from friends and family came naturally, but outside of that bubble, it takes a lot more work.
When we first started, one of the biggest hurdles was gaining visibility in a crowded market. Competing with larger, more established brands required us to find creative ways to stand out and communicate not just the quality of our hand warmers but also our mission to support veterans.
Another challenge was balancing cost efficiency with our commitment to giving back. We knew from the beginning that a portion of our proceeds would go toward veteran initiatives, but ensuring that we could do that sustainably while keeping our products affordable for customers required careful planning and a lot of trial and error.
There were also personal struggles along the way. From family health concerns to juggling graduate school while raising children, there were days when it almost seemed like too much. But through it all, our passion for the mission kept us going. Every story we hear from a veteran whose life was impacted by our efforts or a customer who appreciated our products reminds us why we started and motivates us to push through the tough times.
Looking back, these struggles have shaped us. They’ve made us more resilient and more determined to create a brand that’s not just successful but meaningful to the people it serves.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Patriot Packs?
At Patriot Packs, our mission goes beyond simply creating high-quality hand warmers. We are driven by a commitment to serve – whether it’s providing comfort to our customers during cold winters or giving back to the veteran community. We specialize in producing premium hand warmers that are durable, reliable, and designed for everyone from outdoor enthusiasts to those braving the winter chill in their daily lives.
My own background plays a significant role in shaping the company. I served for six years on active duty in the Air Force, an experience that taught me the values of discipline, perseverance, and the importance of service to others. Before founding Patriot Packs, I spent nearly a decade as a sole-proprietor entrepreneur, running a successful Software as a Service (SaaS) business. During that time, I provided social media and website management services to hundreds of clients, gaining valuable insights into building and scaling businesses while maintaining strong client relationships.
What sets Patriot Packs apart is our dual focus on quality and impact. Not only are we committed to producing a superior product, but a portion of our proceeds is dedicated to supporting veterans, ensuring that every purchase contributes to a greater cause. We’re proud to say that Patriot Packs is quickly becoming a nationwide brand, gaining recognition for its mission-driven approach and positioning itself to overtake current industry leaders.
What I’m most proud of is the community we’re building – a community of customers, veterans, and supporters who share our values. Seeing the impact we’re making, whether it’s hearing from a customer who loves our product or a veteran whose life we’ve touched through our initiatives, is what makes this work truly rewarding.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson I’ve learned along this journey is the power of purpose-driven work. When you align your business with a mission that truly resonates with you and your community, it becomes more than just a job – it becomes a calling. For me, that mission is giving back to veterans and creating a product that genuinely helps people.
I’ve also learned that perseverance is key. Building a business, whether it’s a SaaS company or a nationwide brand like Patriot Packs, is never a straight path. There are obstacles, setbacks, and moments of doubt, but staying focused on the bigger picture and remaining adaptable in the face of challenges has made all the difference.
Another lesson is the importance of community. None of this would be possible without the support of the people around us – from the veterans we serve to our loyal customers and team members. Listening to their feedback, understanding their needs, and letting their stories inspire us has been crucial to our success.
Ultimately, this journey has reinforced my belief that success isn’t just measured in profits, but in the positive impact you leave on others. That’s a lesson I carry with me every day.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.uspatriotpacks.com
