Jackson Hole Local: Michael Massie of AION
Since its inaugural launch of headwear and limited edition tops in March 2013, AION has been steadily growing their manufacturing business in the USA as they simultaneously continue to expand upon their goodwill efforts in Indonesia.
AION was born when Michael Massie was introduced to village craftsmen manufacturing in Bali, also called Pingapo in the Bahasa language. “I started working with village craftsmen to create a unique product that helps the villagers create a sustainable business. During the consultation I saw the tremendous need to help these small villages; they needed basic machinery like sewing machines.”
AION is a Greek word that means “to ascend.” Three years later, AION takes meaning to heart as they ascend to new heights working with village manufacturers and organizations in Bali and other islands in Indonesia (such as Sumba).
“We have developed a great product and are really proud to help capitalize the small, sustainable village businesses. We are also excited to further develop our brand in the USA.”
Q: What do you think makes Jackson Hole the place to be? Why did you choose it as the place for your startup?
A: Of course the mountains and natural beauty of Jackson Hole is inspiring, but the unique community really makes it the place to be. I view Jackson Hole like the North Shore Surfing Epicenter for Mountain lifestyle and activities. Is there any better place to design and manufacture mountain lifestyle gear?
Q: Do you have any favorite local hideouts? Maybe somewhere you like to go or something particular you do on your downtime that tourists may not be aware of?
A: YES! Not sure if I should tell, though. I think the word is out already…my favorite spot is Granite Hot Springs and Camp Grounds. I like to ride my motor bike or snowmobile to Granite Hot Springs and soak and hang with my family and friends.
Q: While Jackson Hole is spectacular, is there something you would like to see changed/improved? Is there something missing from the community that would make it a better place to live, raise a family and have a business?
A: I would like to see more affordable housing for low income families in Jackson. It is a real problem in this community that needs to be addressed and fixed ASAP. I believe Jackson Hole business owners need to collectively reach out to the community to solve the low income housing issue.
Q: What initially brought you to Jackson Hole?
A: I moved to Jackson in 1992 for snowboarding and to get out of the California rat race. As all of my friends, and most of Jacksonites, I fell in love with the place and wouldn’t think of calling anywhere else home.
Q: Is there something others may be surprised to learn about AION? Something no one knows, but would be cool to learn?
A: Yes. In addition to our Jackson Hole design, AION has been working with developing retail stores in other resort towns throughout California and Colorado. We plan to launch our Made in the USA line this fall, and are very excited to grow manufacturing in both the USA and Indonesia.
