True Edge Tuesday with Jared Proulx
For Jared Proulx, spotting the smoke isn’t a setback—it’s a signal to innovate.
As a Principal Design Engineer at SharkNinja, Jared has helped bring to life beloved products like the Ninja CREAMi and SLUSHi, blending rapid iteration with a deep commitment to user-first design. From childhood curiosity to cutting-edge innovation, his journey is all about turning passion into impact. Whether he’s prototyping in the lab or mentoring the next generation of engineers, Jared brings imagination, grit, and team spirit to everything he does—plus a reliable love for Dunkin’ iced coffee.
My True Edge lies in rapid iteration and resilient learning—failing fast, learning faster, and turning every challenge into momentum.”
Chase ideas that spark personal meaning— if it made a lasting memory for you, it can create impact for others. Even rough ideas can lead to breakthrough insights; refinement comes after learning."
I live OE by embracing a ‘Just do it’ mindset—when stuck, I shift gears and build a quick demo to bring clarity fast."
Outrageously Extraordinary in Action
When the team discovered that the cooling technology on the SLUSHi wasn’t delivering the quick, satisfying results that consumers expected, Jared didn’t hesitate to pivot.
The issue surfaced during a key project handoff, when new eyes spotted subtle signs—smoke they’d previously missed. Holding firm to the core insight—if it doesn’t bring joy or create a memorable experience, it’s not ready—he helped steer the team toward new solutions without compromising the product’s vision.
This isn’t new for Jared. From leading the development of the Ninja CREAMi and SLUSHi to launching initiatives around recycled and sound-dampening materials for Ninja blenders, he consistently pushes boundaries and elevates what’s possible. Even in the face of setbacks or skepticism, Jared champions bold ideas and rapid prototyping, all while mentoring co-ops and inspiring teammates with his relentless curiosity and passion for doing what’s right. Jared continues to lead with imagination, resilience, and purpose.
Hear from Jared
What does it mean to be Outrageously Extraordinary (OE)?
To be Outrageously Extraordinary means boldly following your passions with confidence and positivity, while staying adaptable and grounded in outcomes. Chase ideas that spark personal meaning—if it made a lasting memory for you, it can create impact for others. Even rough ideas can lead to breakthrough insights; refinement comes after learning.
True Edge is described as “a key principle of the OE mindset, combining vigilance, innovative insight, and strategic solutions to create a competitive advantage that is exceptionally hard to replicate.”
What’s your True Edge, or what are you working to build?
My True Edge lies in rapid iteration and resilient learning—failing fast, learning faster, and turning every challenge into momentum. Like a goalie bouncing back after a goal, I embrace struggle as part of the story. Insight backed by data, tested through action, and refined with team alignment is what turns bold ideas into viral breakthroughs.
Can you share examples of how you live OE?
I live “OE” by embracing a “Just do it” mindset—literally and figuratively. I wear Nike shoes as a reminder to act, not overanalyze. When I catch myself stuck in CAD or deep in discussion, I shift gears and build a quick demo to bring clarity fast. It happens almost weekly—and every time, taking action beats the swirl.
What makes working at SharkNinja special?
The ability to turn personal passion into global impact. I grew up making ice cream and cookies with my grandfather—he taught me that food is a way to share love and create joy. Being able to help create a machine that lets people around the world experience that same magic at home is deeply meaningful. My kitchen is now full of Ninja products (I joke we need a product garage), and knowing others are making new memories with what we build—that’s what makes it all worth it.
Please join us in congratulating Jared for being this week's True Edge Tuesday!
About True Edge Tuesday
At SharkNinja, we strive for the outrageously extraordinary in everything we do, driven by our True Edge – the super skills that set us apart. This cornerstone of the outrageously extraordinary (OE) mindset harnesses innovative insight and strategic solutions to create a competitive advantage, empowering us to positively impact people’s lives every day.
True Edge Tuesday celebrates team members who go above and beyond, showcasing what it means to reject the status quo and embrace the extraordinary.
