Derek Leason

Founding Design Engineer (In Memory Of)

Derek had 30+ years of experience building aircraft and rockets as an aerospace design engineer. He was our founding mastermind innovator, intent on making a lasting impact on his daughter, grandchildren, and the world they will live in. Derek passed away in October 2020. The company is forever grateful for his contribution! His legacy will live on through us and all the tiny homes we build in his honor.

Arya Mazanek

CEO & Co-Founder

With an entrepreneurial mind and vision for changing the world, Arya uses strong leadership and critical thinking skills to bring Wilderwise to life. Her commitment to personal integrity, ethical responsibility, and environmental protection is a foundation and catalyst for the company. She thrives on deepening her connection to herself and every person she meets. Arya lives a healthy lifestyle and loves spending time outdoors – catch her rock climbing, hiking, or by the campfire.

John Sitler

Chairman

John is our seed investor, high-level strategist, and financial expert. With a diverse background in engineering, physics, and economics, he is the backbone of our lean, balanced business model. With experience on the hedge-fund trading floor and as a project manager for high-profile renewable energy projects, John knows how to create progressive change on a grand scale. In his time off, he loves to free-dive in freshwater springs and cozy up with a crossword puzzle.

Mirza Mesanovic

Director of Engineering

With skills in both mechanical engineering and business management, Mirza bridges the gap between highly technical work and communication-driven leadership. His patient, systematic approach ensures the safety and quality of our products. Mirza’s passion for community building and helping others makes him an excellent leader for our Bosnian team. When he’s not testing mechanics on his computer, he’s off listening to jazz music, watching a sci-fi movie, or at the gym.

Laurence Alexander

Customer Relations Specialist

Laurence has a keen understanding of customer needs and a passion for cultivating meaningful relationships. Developed through more than a decade of experience, his communication skills and charisma add value beyond measure. Eco-conscious and inspired, Laurence has spurred initiatives to reduce plastic waste and clean up areas in his hometown. You can find him at a local disc golf course, trail running, or playing his saxophone.

Jasmine Pan

Supply Chain Partner

With her impressive international network and 10+ year background in diplomacy, Jasmine is a key partner to the Wilderwise team. In her previous roles at the Consulate General of the UAE, she facilitated relationships between businesses and government agencies. She is now the founder and CEO of Falconnect, a Shanghai-based investment advisory firm. She acts as our liaison between vendors, shipping companies, and tax authorities; extending Wilderwise's reach to circumnavigate the global market. In her free time, Jasmine loves to scuba dive, play tennis, do yoga, and practice tai chi.

Senad Kasumovic

Supply Chain Manager

With a background in economics, project management, and quality control, Senad supports the team with his expert organization skills and logistical insights. His contributions to sourcing high quality parts, refining a sustainable supply chain, and planning for serial production is invaluable. As a father and war survivor, Senad is committed to finding solutions to improve lives, connect people, and be more sustainable in all aspects. He is a lover of food, traveling, and running.

Armin Smajic

Assembly Manager

Armin offers valuable expertise in technical documentation, welding, and construction. His background in hands-on parts and systems installation is foundational in ensuring each Wilderwise model is assembled with care and accuracy. Armin is not your average builder – his dedication to detailed work and passion for learning make him stand out from the crowd. When he’s not getting his hands dirty in our warehouse, Armin can be found at a local car gathering or hosting a comedy movie night with friends.

Azrina Delic

Technical Manager

While also pursuing her engineering master's degree with a focus on renewable energy, Azrina contributes to this project with bright ideas and solutions to make Wilderwise both comfortable and energy efficient. Motivated by her commitment to innovation and environmental protection, Azrina’s technical work ensures that our products are as green as can be. When she’s not studying or designing a sustainable water system, she’ll be in a coffee shop with friends or relaxing with a good book.

Mirza Mesanovic

Director of Engineering

With skills in both mechanical engineering and business management, Mirza bridges the gap between highly technical work and communication-driven leadership. His patient, systematic approach ensures the safety and quality of our products. Mirza’s passion for community building and helping others makes him an excellent leader for our Bosnian team. When he’s not testing mechanics on his computer, he’s off listening to jazz music, watching a sci-fi movie, or at the gym.

Mirza Spahic

Development Engineer

Mirza is a mechanical engineer with expertise in production engineering and product development. His work on developing Wilderwise’s structural components and moving parts has prepared our designs for success in real-life applications. With keen problem solving skills, dedication to craft, and constant desire to improve, Mirza is an integral member of our engineering and production team. Outside of work, he enjoys socializing, carp fishing, and playing snooker.