Reflecting on Decades of Service & Purpose
BY: DIANE BRISTOL, WQW BOARD OF DIRECTORS
LOOKING BACK: 35+ YEARS AT SIMMS/REVELYST
If you had told me back in 1988 that a spur-of-the-moment decision would lead to over a 35-year career, I never would have believed you.
I was visiting my fiancé in Jackson Hole when I saw a customer service opening at Life-Link International, Simms’ parent company at the time. On a whim, I interviewed while I was in town and was offered the job. I canceled my return flight to Denver, thinking it would just be a fun transition from college into the “real world.” I never imagined that moment would set the course for the next three and a half decades of my life.
One of my earliest memories was traveling to Bozeman to tour the brand-new manufacturing facility. I had never seen anything like it. They were making neoprene waders using a new process with seam tape technology instead of stitching—cutting edge at the time. Every single pair was tested to make sure it didn’t leak. That same level of care and craftsmanship is still true today, and it was my first glimpse into what made this place so special.
Over the years, I had the privilege of working in almost every part of the business, except operations and finance. No one wants me fiddling around in there! I never thought the Life-Link customer service role would launch a 35+ year career where I was fortunate enough to work with people at Life-Link, Simms, and finally, Revelyst.
I started in customer service, but my curiosity, enthusiasm, partnership, and drive kept being recognized and pulling me into new opportunities. Eventually, I landed in a role that fit me perfectly: VP of People, Culture, and Community. It was never part of a “grand plan,” but I was fortunate to work alongside leaders and teammates who encouraged me to grow, stretch, and serve.
Working for over three decades anywhere comes with a lot of challenges and triumphs. What kept me here for 35 years? Five things come to mind:
The people. I’ve been surrounded by passionate, committed colleagues who have become family.
The brand. The majority of my tenure was as a Simms team member, so I’ll always bleed Simms Orange.
The community and advocacy work. Being able to align my values with the company’s mission was an incredible gift. I am grateful that I was able to dedicate so much of my focus in our community on fishing, conservation, advocacy, the Gallatin Valley, non-profits, etc.
Fishing adventures. No, working here doesn’t mean you fish every day—but it did build relationships that opened doors to unforgettable experiences that brought me and my family to some amazing places. I had to spend a lot of time away from family because of work, so these trips were our opportunity to reconnect and celebrate the fact that great sacrifice can lead to great rewards.
Lifelong Friendships. I cannot express how my heart fills with joy when I think of the friends I’ve made during my time at Simms/Revelyst. I have a wonderful group of girlfriends who have taken fishing trips across the world. I have coworkers and former employees who are more family than peers.
There were milestones that stand out too: launching the first ever GORE-TEX wader in 1993 – an industry game changer, advocating for the Yellowstone Gateway Protection Act in 2016, raising over $50,000 for Warriors & Quiet Waters (WQW) through the G3 Guide Wader campaign, supporting countless community events, to connect people to fishing and conservation, and funding the Gallatin Home Rivers Initiative with a $250,000 commitment. Each milestone reinforced the idea that our work was always about more than products—it was about people, places, and purpose.
What has made this journey truly meaningful is witnessing the growth, resilience, and achievements of the remarkable individuals who’ve been part of Simms/Revelyst. Their dedication, creativity, and passion for the brand have shaped the culture and propelled the organization forward in inspiring ways. Just as important is their shared commitment to protecting the natural resources that make it possible to enjoy the sports we love - ensuring that future generations can experience the same connection to the outdoors.
As I step away from this chapter, I find it quite fitting that my last day will be spent volunteering at WQW’s Quiet Waters Ranch. Yes, scrubbing bathrooms might sound like a funny way to celebrate a career, but to me, it’s perfect. Giving back, showing up, and serving others has always been at the heart of what I value most.
A DECADE OF SERVICE: 10 YEARS – AND COUNTING – WITH WQW
My journey with Warriors & Quiet Waters began years ago with a simple conversation. Colonel Eric Hastings shared his vision, and we were hooked (pun intended). The mission resonated deeply with me right away.
Later, when Joe Esparza invited me to join the board, I knew it was the right way to lean in. I’ve always found healing and clarity on the river, and I knew the same connection to water, nature, and purpose could profoundly impact veterans through the WQW programs.
What inspires me most about what WQW does is seeing the look on a Warrior’s face after a day on the water—peace, joy, comfort. It’s powerful. Serving on the board has deepened my own sense of purpose and connected me to something far bigger than myself.
Like the journey of Life-Link, Simms, and Revelyst, I’ve also been able to witness great transformation at WQW over the last 10 years. In the early days, it wasn’t clear to me how far WQW would go. But under Brian Gilman’s leadership and the launch of the Built for More program, it is now so evident that meaningful growth is always possible – for veterans and the organizations that serve them. The WQW team’s commitment to impact and accountability has been nothing short of inspiring. (Cue Don’t Stop Believin’)
That’s why I chose to mark my retirement from Simms/Revelyst with a fundraiser for WQW. It’s my way of saying thank you and paying it forward, ensuring more Warriors have the chance to experience the healing power of nature through the Built for More program.
I invite you to think of the moment a Warrior finds peace on the river. That calm, joy, and sense of belonging is priceless. And when they complete the program, their words reflect renewed purpose and community. Your gift makes that possible. It’s a small gesture with lasting impact.
Looking ahead, my hope is for WQW to grow a nationwide network of champions. Though it began in Bozeman, the Warriors it serves come from across the country—and so should its support.
What started as a leap of faith has become the most meaningful journey of my life. I’m grateful for the people, the purpose, and the friendships that shaped these 35 years. And I’m excited for what comes next—not just for me, but for Simms, Revelyst, and Warriors & Quiet Waters.