Joseph Z.

I’m a seasoned product development expert and founder of 99Monkeys Designs—a consultancy dedicated to turning bold ideas into market-ready products through design, prototyping, and manufacturing strategy. With over 30 years of experience in hands-on product development, I’ve helped inventors, startups, and established brands bring breakthrough consumer products to life. I’m especially known for my leadership as Lead Design Engineer at Work Sharp Tools, where I spearheaded the development of industry-leading sharpening systems and patented gear designed for real-world performance. Prior to that, I helped pioneer 3D scanning and additive manufacturing for custom orthotics, holding multiple patents in the medical bracing field for scan-to-fit and print-to-form technologies. What sets me apart is a unique ability to bridge creative ideation with production-level execution. I speak the language of design, but also that of tooling, sourcing, DFM, and scale. At 99Monkeys Designs, I offer services including: • Concept ideation & product strategy • 3D CAD modeling & industrial design • Functional prototyping (FDM, SLA, and other methods) • Patent support & technical documentation • DFM and manufacturing oversight (domestic & overseas) Whether you’ve got a napkin sketch or a prototype that needs refinement, I work with clients to move fast, think smart, and launch with confidence. If you’re ready to move from idea to impact—let’s connect.