J15 began as a passion project born out of my love for the Warhammer 40K community and my background in video production and photography. Initially, I set out to create a sign for a 40K podcast set, but frustration with working on foam led me to invest in my first laser cutter. What started as a simple tool quickly opened up a world of creative possibilities. I began experimenting with tokens and game aids, and within a few months, I upgraded to a larger laser. Ironically, that sign never got finished—but something much bigger took its place.

The name "J15" holds deep personal meaning. It refers to John Chapter 15, a reminder for me to keep the Lord at the center of my attention and approach my work with humility and purpose.

When I first started, I thought J15 would lean heavily into woodworking, but I quickly became fascinated with creating tools that addressed specific challenges in tabletop games. Incorporating magnets and designing items to streamline gameplay became my focus. I wanted to reduce the uncertainties that sometimes arise during games and, most importantly, help players enjoy their time at the table.

My passion for gaming stretches back to childhood. Even as a kid, I’d stage fantastical battles with toy army men. In high school, I discovered Dungeons & Dragons and Warhammer, and I’ve never looked back. These games introduced me to some of my closest friends, many of whom I now work with daily. The bonds and communities built across the tabletop are what matter most to me—they’re the heart of what J15 stands for.

The early days of J15 were humble. I started in my garage, working between piles of laundry and my son’s old stroller. It wasn’t easy, but I was never alone. My local gaming group and close friends rallied around me, helping with everything from packaging to product design. Together, we overcame every challenge that came our way, and their support has been a cornerstone of J15’s journey.

The turning point came about six months in, when we launched the nesting movement tool, affectionately nicknamed "The Transformer." Seeing the community embrace that product showed me that we were onto something special. Since then, J15 has grown faster than I could have imagined, with incredible support from the community every step of the way.

J15’s mission is simple but meaningful: to design with intention. We strive to identify pain points in games and create solutions that make gameplay easier, more fun, and more engaging. At the same time, we’re committed to maintaining exceptional customer service and upholding strong ethical standards.

Looking to the future, I hope to see J15 become a household name in the wargaming and TTRPG space. I truly believe our tools enhance the gaming experience, and I want everyone to discover the joy they can bring to the table.