The Founders
Kyle and Melinda Nyseth
A combat veteran of three wars, Kyle Nyseth served 22 years in the U.S. Navy as a proud Mustang LDO with leadership roles across submarines, surface ships, and Naval Special Warfare. His service includes time aboard the USS Norfolk during operations off Bosnia, and the USS Parche, where he completed three classified missions in the Bering Sea—earning the Presidential Unit Citation. During this tour, NASA scientists aboard studied crew behavior in isolation in preparation for future Mars missions, and Kyle was honored to fly the Jolly Roger.
Following 9/11, Kyle deployed to Iraq with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit aboard the USS Duluth. As Chief Engineer for Special Boat Team 12, he later deployed with a Mark V patrol boat squadron to the Philippines, Singapore, and Indonesia. In 2007, he became a commissioning officer for Riverine Squadron 3 in Virginia, training “Blue Water” sailors through the Marine School of Infantry to conduct combat river patrols along the Euphrates from Syria to Baghdad. He concluded his career as Chief Engineering Officer at Special Boat Team 12 in San Diego.
After retiring in 2012, Kyle and his wife Melinda founded NavyPaddles.com. What began as a simple handmade paddle has grown into a symbol of service and teamwork across the military, fire, and police communities. Navy Paddles creates custom wooden memorabilia that honor achievements and commemorate milestones—a true Craft of Honor that keeps Kyle connected to the brotherhood he served alongside.
Matt Esquibel
CEO
As the heart and vision behind Navy Paddles, Matt Esquibel brings passion, integrity, and a deep commitment to excellence to every facet of our business. Alongside his wife, Caitlin—his partner in both life and business for over a decade—Matt has built Navy Paddles into a trusted, veteran-founded brand celebrated for its quality, craftsmanship, and exceptional customer service.
Matt is passionate about people and process, ensuring that every member of his small, dedicated team feels fulfilled and supported in their roles. His focus on community outreach and nurturing lasting relationships is at the core of Navy Paddles' success.
Military heritage runs deep in Matt’s family. With a retired Navy father, a brother serving as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Air Force, and a grandfather who served as a Marine in the Pacific during WWII, his personal legacy fuels his passion for supporting veterans and the causes that matter most.
When he’s not driving innovation at Navy Paddles, Matt is a devoted family man. He spends quality time coaching and cheering on his two kids throughout their year-round sports schedule, enjoys life with their three dogs, and even finds time to challenge himself as a consistent—if modest—CrossFit athlete.
Matt’s blend of leadership, heartfelt dedication, and personal connection to military service continues to inspire the team at Navy Paddles and every product we create.
Caitlin Esquibel
Chief Innovation Officer
Caitlin Esquibel is the innovative spark behind Navy Paddles. With a natural talent for thinking outside the box, she plays a vital role in shaping our products and spearheading community outreach initiatives. Passionate about supporting US service members and veterans, Caitlin channels her creativity into every project, ensuring our offerings resonate with authenticity and care.
Together with her husband, Matt, Caitlin has been an integral part of the business for over a decade, seamlessly blending family life with their shared professional journey. Outside of work, she’s a devoted mother who is very involved in their 13-year-old's national volleyball team and cherishes every moment watching their 12-year-old play basketball as Matt coaches. She also enjoys quality time with their three dogs.
Caitlin’s hands-on approach—whether brainstorming innovative solutions or stepping in to assist with production during busy times—ensures the team is always supported. Her commitment to excellence and deep-rooted passion for service are key drivers in moving Navy Paddles forward every day.
Julie Rammer
Director of quality Assurance
Julie ensures every product not only meets but exceeds our high standards—often surpassing even our customers' expectations. With a meticulous eye for detail and a commitment to excellence, her role is key in maintaining the quality and integrity of our offerings. Outside of work, Julie enjoys quality time with her husband and three kids. Her most exhausting daily mission is keeping the boss in line and productive.
Brodi Schulz
Director of Customer Experience and Product Design
Brodi works directly with our clients to craft the perfect solution tailored to their vision. As our Director of Customer Experience and Product Design, she is the bridge between creative innovation and customer satisfaction—ensuring every product is as unique as the story it represents. With her hands-on approach and keen eye for detail, Brodi collaborates closely with clients to fine-tune every design, guaranteeing an exceptional experience from start to finish.
Outside of work, Brodi is a proud mom and a dedicated partner who cherishes quality time with her husband and two children. Notably, she is also a three-time MVP of Eau Claire, Wisconsin's Bronze Division rec league volleyball team, a testament to her drive and competitive spirit both on and off the court.
John Hebgen
Director of Production
John Hebgen is the mastermind behind transforming raw wood into products that truly celebrate the highest honors. With a relentless focus on precision and craftsmanship, he refines every step of our production process to ensure that each piece meets our rigorous standards. John’s expertise guarantees that every creation is not only a work of art but a worthy tribute to those we honor.
Marla Hooch
What a hitter
"I'm sing'n to Nelson."