Inventors group is taking a look at the 'ugly baby'

SANDPOINT — For anyone who has an invention that only a mother could love, next week's Inventors Association of Idaho meeting is the place to be.

Engineer and IAoI board member Jason Johnson will present "Ugly Baby 101" to give inventors an idea of how to decide if their invention has what it takes to go the distance.

"Mostly I will be talking about the emotional connection that people get regarding their ideas," Johnson said. "I will provide some actual experiences and theoretical ideas on how to protect yourself from the 'ugly baby' — the invention that does nothing but drag you under."

Johnson has many years experience as an engineer working on large scale municipal and government projects as well as developing new products for companies and industry. With more than a dozen patents under his name, Johnson supports his design efforts with an education from the University of Idaho. He holds a degree in mechanical engineering and a minor in manufacturing engineering. His knowledge in product development and his experience bring significant ability to aid in product development.

Johnson is the chief technology officer and owner of several businesses that hold product patents and are selling products in the fishing and ATV markets. He built this company from the ground up and has gained substantial experience in the processes needed to take an invention from an idea to a market.

He is also a U.S. Navy veteran, spent time as a volunteer firefighter and EMT, as well as a master welder.

Most importantly, Johnson has a profound desire to assist other inventors and entrepreneurs.

“I love just sitting with people that have ideas and strategize about how to get them to market,” Johnson said.

During the meeting, inventors will learn methods to test the market, eliminate biased or dishonest feedback, learn to develop product price and determine the best venue for selling a product.

The group will meet at 2 p.m. March 1 in the second-floor conference room of the Columbia Bank building, 414 Church St. IAoI will hold its regular mixer afterward for mingling and learning from experts.