Our Team

Our Mission

To provide unrivaled retail commerce software tailored specifically for the firearms industry by delivering a modernized, fully integrated solution to aid retailers in streamlining operations and maximizing efficiencies.

Our Vision

To become the firearm industry’s leading retail software provider by targeting and replacing antiquated systems with a modernized, omnichannel solution that streamlines operations and improves business efficiencies. Trident 1 strives for continuous innovation to deliver a best-in-class product at an affordable price while providing legendary customer service.

Jake Newbold

President & CEO United States Navy SEAL Senior Chief, Retired

Jake Newbold

President & CEO United States Navy SEAL Senior Chief, Retired

Jake Newbold joined the U.S. Navy at the age of 18 in June of 1997, one month after graduating high school in rural eastern Ohio. After completing Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL Training (BUD/S) with class 219 in 1998, he embarked on a twenty-year career serving at SEAL Teams FOUR, EIGHT, Naval Special Warfare Unit FOUR, Naval Special Warfare Basic Training Command, and the Naval Special Warfare Center.

Throughout his Naval career—as a SEAL Sniper and Senior Enlisted Leader—Newbold led over 150 combat operations across eight deployments to Afghanistan, Iraq, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. He also trained over 1,200 active-duty SEAL candidates as a SEAL Instructor.

Upon retiring from the Navy in 2017, he began his civilian career as an Associate Banker on JPMorgan’s Corporate Client and Specialized Industries team in Dallas, TX. As a licensed Series 79 Investment Banker, he assisted the bank’s Energy Finance team in delivering commercial and investment banking services to primarily high-yield, publicly traded oil and gas companies, with average annual revenues ranging from $500 million to over $3 billion.

Newbold has served on the Board of Directors of the SEAL Legacy Foundation (SLF), a nonprofit organization, since 2011. As a primary financial sponsor and supporter of the SLF since its inception, Trident 1’s founders and primary equity sponsor, Park Ten Capital, hand-selected Newbold in February 2020 to develop and lead the Trident 1 team as President & CEO.

He holds an MBA from the Johnson School of Management at Cornell University, an MBA from the Smith School of Business at Queen’s University in Canada, and a BS in Workforce Education and Training from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale. He is fluent in Spanish and Portuguese, and is the recipient of numerous service awards and decorations, including the Bronze Star Medal with a combat “V” device for distinguished valor. He is also an inductee in the Ohio Military Hall of Fame. He currently resides in Dallas, TX.

Daniel Peterson

Chief of Operations Former United States Navy SEAL

Daniel Peterson

Chief of Operations Former United States Navy SEAL

Daniel Peterson enlisted in the U.S. Navy in April of 2009 and began Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) training later that year. Upon graduation, he served on an East Coast-based SEAL Team until the end of his enlistment in April of 2015. Over the course of his service, he participated in over 60 combat and training operations with three deployments across Afghanistan and Africa, serving as a SEAL Sniper and Reconnaissance Team Leader.

Prior to joining the Navy, Daniel worked in the construction industry throughout Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. He held leadership positions within the industry, including roles in General Contracting, Sales, and Project Consultation. Most recently, Daniel joined the Trident 1 team in the spring of 2020 from a Dallas-based consulting firm, where he provided diversified representation of clients’ capital—both domestically and internationally—across multiple real estate asset classes.

Daniel holds a B.S. in Construction Management from the University of Louisiana at Monroe. He is the recipient of multiple service awards and decorations, including the Silver Star Medal.

John Laskowski

Chief Technology Officer

John Laskowski

Chief Technology Officer

John is a passionate business leader with a unique blend of strategy, development, solutions, and execution in business-to-business products. He brings over 25 years of experience in technology, along with significant strengths in process management and the delivery of complex solutions. He has a proven track record of successfully leading new product development, solution fitment, and engineering.

Currently, John is responsible for the technology, product vision, and development at Trident 1. He is driven by a passion for supporting the firearms and outdoor accessories space by creating a viable software product that enables merchants to run their businesses in a compliant and efficient way.

Prior to Trident 1, John was a principal consultant and business analyst in the energy space for fourteen years. He increased the efficiency and profitability of business lines by solving complex problems that spanned logistics, operations, marketing, and accounting. Understanding and seeing the world through the eyes of his clients helped him design solutions tailored to their unique challenges.

Outside of work, John continues to learn and teach through his involvement on the advisory board for the Computer Information Systems College at the University of Houston, and by developing youth as a Venture Crew Leader and NRA instructor for the Boy Scouts. John is also a dedicated Ironman athlete, competing nationally and volunteering locally.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Texas A&M University.

Taylor Kelly

Chairman & Head of Payments

Taylor Kelly

Chairman & Head of Payments

Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of Trident 1, Taylor is a native Texan and a 2004 graduate of Texas Christian University with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Taylor began his business career by founding Merchants’ Choice Payment Solutions Partners, where he served as acting President and CEO. MCPS Partners was a payment processing sales organization that grew to become the second-largest sales organization in the country for Merchants Choice and Woodforest National Bank.

After selling a majority stake to Merchants Choice in 2016, MCPS Partners—then a subsidiary of Merchants Choice—participated in a larger $470 million acquisition between Merchants Choice and Paysafe Payment Processing Solutions in 2017. Taylor’s 20 years of experience in the payment processing sector helped lay the foundation for the payments division of Trident 1—Trident 1 Payment Processing.

In addition to his work with Trident 1, Taylor supports veterans through his role on the Event Committee for the SEAL Legacy Foundation. He also serves as a Board Member for Upper Hand Point of Sale Software and is currently the acting CEO of PaySafe Associates, a payment processing sales organization.

Brandon Brown

Account Executive, Former Navy, Active Ohio SWAT Officer

Brandon Brown

Account Executive, Former Navy, Active Ohio SWAT Officer

Brandon Brown embarked on his career journey in February 1999 when he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. After successfully completing boot camp, he furthered his education at the Navy and Marine Corps Intelligence Training Center (NMITC). Following his time at Intel school, Brandon was stationed at Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia Beach, where he served as an Intelligence Specialist within the F-18 Fighter Squadron VFA 34. Despite his brief tenure at VFA 34, Brandon's dedication was evident.

Brandon's path took a different turn when he received an honorable medical discharge from the Navy. He transitioned into the automotive industry, quickly excelling in sales and earning promotions that led him to management roles. Over the course of a decade, he managed franchise car dealerships, demonstrating strong leadership and business acumen.

In 2014, a profound realization sparked a career shift—Brandon recognized his true passion lay in law enforcement. He enrolled in the police academy and graduated at the top of his class, earning accolades including Cadet Commander, Top Shot, Perfect Attendance, and First Place on the State Certification Exam. In 2015, he was appointed as a Deputy Sheriff with the Columbiana County Sheriff's Office.

During his tenure at Columbiana County, Brandon made significant contributions. From 2016 to 2022, he served as a core member of the Columbiana County SWAT team. His dedication and leadership earned him a promotion to the rank of Sergeant, and he spent several years working with the Drug Task Force.

In July 2022, Brandon began a new chapter with Trident 1. At the same time, he took on a part-time role as a Deputy with the Marion County Sheriff's Office. His tactical expertise was immediately recognized, leading to his addition to the Marion County SWAT team, where he continues to serve. Brandon is also a certified pistol and rifle instructor through OPOTA (Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy).

Throughout his law enforcement career, Brandon has earned numerous commendations, including the prestigious Combat Cross.

ANDREW FOWLER

Director of Training, Former United States Navy SEAL

ANDREW FOWLER

Director of Training, Former United States Navy SEAL

Andrew Fowler has a diverse professional background and is currently serving as an Account Executive at Trident 1 since April 2021, overseeing client accounts, sales, and client training.

Before that, he gained extensive experience at Mayer Electric Supply from September 2016 to March 2021, where he handled outside sales, maintained relationships with customers and vendors, and coordinated operations for job sites with substantial monthly volume. Additionally, he worked in project management, playing a key role in supplying materials for the Alabama Power steam plant coal-to-natural-gas conversion project.

Prior to his work in the electrical supply industry, Andrew served for six years in the United States Navy as a Special Warfare Operator (SEAL). His service included roles as a Tactical Instructor, Unit Ordnance Manager, and SEAL Sniper and Reconnaissance Team Leader, where he completed rigorous training and participated in numerous high-risk training exercises and combat missions.

He is the recipient of multiple service awards and decorations, including the Bronze Star Medal with Valor for heroic achievement.

Michael Nguyen

Chief Information Officer

Michael Nguyen

Chief Information Officer

Michael Nguyen brings almost three decades of diverse experience in enterprise software development, agile leadership, and systems optimization to his role as Chief Information Officer. With a proven track record of delivering large-scale digital solutions across industries including manufacturing, oil and gas, energy and healthcare, Michael is known for transforming complex technical challenges into practical, high-impact solutions. He is particularly skilled at leading cross-functional teams and has served as a Scrum Master and Product Owner on numerous mission-critical projects with global reach.

Before joining Trident 1, Michael held management and senior development roles at FMC Technologies, where he led the design and implementation of enterprise systems used by thousands of users worldwide. His portfolio includes a global manufacturing execution system integrated with SAP, mobile enterprise apps, and workflow platforms that drove efficiency across engineering and executive operations. Earlier in his career, Michael made significant contributions at MD Anderson Cancer Center, where he managed clinical trial data systems and pioneered analytics solutions for genetic and medical research.

Michael’s entrepreneurial spirit is equally notable. As the founder of a successful dog training business, he managed both the technical and operational sides of the company, demonstrating his versatility and leadership beyond the tech sector. His consulting work has also spanned critical business applications for energy trading, automotive services, and gaming, where he has consistently delivered scalable systems that improve productivity and lower operational costs.

At the core of Michael’s philosophy is a relentless focus on user experience, process improvement, and technological innovation. His deep technical expertise in a variety of platforms, combined with his strategic vision and leadership, position him as a key driver of our company’s technology roadmap. As CIO, Michael is dedicated to building resilient infrastructure, fostering agile development practices, and aligning IT initiatives with business goals to fuel sustained growth and customer satisfaction.

Cameren Grodhaus

Training & Onboarding Specialist

Cameren Grodhaus

Training & Onboarding Specialist

Cameren Grodhaus is a driven and accomplished professional with a strong foundation in both academics and athletics. He graduated summa cum laude from Lake Erie College, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with minors in Business Administration and Criminal Justice. Continuing his academic journey, Cameren obtained a Master of Business Administration in Business Management from Davenport University in 2025.

During his tenure at Davenport, Cameren distinguished himself as a standout defensive back on the football field. In the 2024 season, he led both his team and the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) with 96 tackles and 3 interceptions, earning Second Team All-American honors from the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA). His exceptional performance also garnered All-American recognition from lists like the Don Hansen, D2Football.com, and College Football Network.

Balancing athletics with professional development, Cameren served as an office manager at MEF Fieldhouse in Caledonia, Michigan, while training for his NFL Pro Day in March 2025. This role showcased his leadership and organizational skills, complementing his on-field discipline.

Currently, Cameren is committed to contributing to the Trident 1 Team, bringing his dedication, strategic mindset, and team-oriented approach to the organization. His multifaceted background positions him as an asset in any professional setting.

CONNOR SIMPSON

Account Executive, Former Navy

CONNOR SIMPSON

Account Executive, Former Navy

Connor Simpson is an accomplished veteran and MBA graduate from Southern Methodist University. He brings a unique background to his role at Trident 1, having served as a small boat coxswain in the United States Navy, where he honed his leadership skills and expertise in small boat operations.

Originally from Houston, Texas, Connor was raised in Manhattan Beach, California, where he developed a lifelong passion for football. After completing his college football career at SMU and serving in the military, he transitioned into the business world as an Industrial Real Estate Broker. Now, he is focused on growing the Trident 1 brand in his role as an Account Executive.

A dedicated sports enthusiast, Connor has an undying love for football, hockey, golf, and MMA. When he’s not learning or training for athletic pursuits, you’ll likely find him on the golf course enjoying his favorite hobby. He is excited for the next phase of his journey and is proud to represent the Trident 1 brand.

Mark Mullen

Inside Sales Rep, Former D.C. Police Officer

Mark Mullen

Inside Sales Rep, Former D.C. Police Officer

Mark began his career in law enforcement and security in 1999. He was trained and hired to protect foreign dignitaries in the D.C. Metropolitan area. For several years, Mark worked for a royal family, providing Diplomatic Security and collaborating closely with U.S. and foreign security forces. After the family relocated overseas, Mark transitioned to providing Executive Protection for other dignitaries, celebrities, and VIPs in the metropolitan area.

He served as a Special Police Officer in the D.C. area for ten years and was sworn in by two police departments. Following his time in Washington, D.C., Mark worked as a government security contractor at various government installations, providing armed protection.

In 2018, Mark and his family moved to North Idaho to enjoy the region’s incredible outdoor activities. He continued his work as a security contractor in Washington State and Idaho until 2021. That year, he joined a major holster company, where he spent eighteen months developing strong relationships with gun store owners. Mark joined the Trident 1 team in April of 2023.

In his spare time, Mark enjoys spending time with his family, riding motorcycles, and going to the gun range.

ERIC PROBST

Lead Client Services Rep, Former Army

ERIC PROBST

Lead Client Services Rep, Former Army

Eric Probst served in the U.S. Army for eight years, achieving the rank of Sergeant. Upon leaving the military, he entered the firearms industry, beginning in sales and eventually advancing to roles as a firearms instructor and in management.

Eric attended IT school, earning a basic certification with a focus on IT security. He later worked for an IT company, serving in a helpdesk role supporting contracted accounts.

Eric began his journey with Trident 1 by assisting with customer service and training. Over time, he rose to lead the Customer Service team. His strong support for the Second Amendment and extensive experience in the firearms industry fueled a deep passion for firearms. By combining his IT expertise with a background in customer service, Eric found an ideal role with Trident 1.

Lee Graham

Senior Logistics Facilitator, Former Army Ranger

Lee Graham

Senior Logistics Facilitator, Former Army Ranger

Lee joined the U.S. Army in 1990 out of Houston, Texas, as an infantryman. He was stationed at Ft. Benning, Ft. Bragg, and Camp Bonifas, serving in the 3rd Ranger Battalion, F/51st LRSC, and the Joint Security Area (Scout Platoon). Lee served until 1996 and later rejoined the Army Reserve in 2003, continuing through 2010 as a training cadre at Ft. Sill, where he prepared troops for deployment to Iraq. Over the course of his military career, Lee served as an assistant machine gunner, machine gunner, radio operator, weapons squad leader, and senior cadre member.

Following his military service, Lee worked for 20 years in the oil and gas industry at KMG Chemicals, where he served as Director of Sales & Marketing. In this role, he led a team of 8 direct reports and 16 global sales agents. He also collaborated with the Business Management Team on mergers and acquisitions—targeting, modeling, and integrating deals that resulted in three acquisitions totaling approximately $200 million.

Lee has been married for 30 years and, together with his wife Tricia, has raised five beautiful daughters. He has studied Business Analytics at the University of Pennsylvania and Applied Science at Tarleton State University.

Leila Adnani

Chief Marketing Officer

Leila Adnani

Chief Marketing Officer

Leila Adnani is a results-driven Chief Marketing Officer at Trident 1. With over a decade of experience, she has successfully implemented and managed digital marketing strategies that have significantly contributed to the growth of tech-focused companies.

Leila’s expertise lies in crafting impactful brand narratives, optimizing online presence, and driving measurable results. Her ability to blend creativity with data-driven insights has consistently delivered high-performing campaigns and enhanced brand visibility.

As a seasoned marketer, Leila continues to leverage her skills to thrive in the dynamic SaaS tech industry, helping guide Trident 1’s marketing vision and execution.

She splits her time between Dallas, TX, and Scottsdale, AZ. An avid skier and boxing coach, Leila also enjoys traveling and playing golf in her free time.

Sandee Finley

SVP, Executive Partnerships

Sandee Finley

SVP, Executive Partnerships

Sandee Finley, ETA, CPP, is the Chief Payments Officer at PaySafe Associates and AtPoint Solutions, where she is widely recognized for her business acumen and tenacity. With extensive expertise in merchant services and the payments industry, she earned her Certified Payments Professional (CPP) designation through the Electronic Transactions Association (ETA) and continues to share her knowledge with partners, colleagues, and clients.

Sandee’s journey to leadership has been shaped by hard work, perseverance, and a broad range of training experiences. After earning her Associate’s Degree in Information Technology in 2004, she began her career at Merchants’ Choice Card Services as a Customer Service and Technical Support representative. She quickly advanced into a management role, overseeing the department and leading training for both new and existing employees.

She later transitioned into a Relationship Management position, where she helped multiple ISO/Agent offices integrate with the MCCS/MCPS platform and grow their businesses. In 2014, Sandee joined Taylor Kelly at Merchants Choice Payment Solution Partners—the second-largest sales organization for MCPS and Woodforest National Bank—as the Senior Director of Customer and Technical Support. There, she was responsible for ISO/agent training, integration, and support to expand their business operations and networks.

After MCPS Partners was sold in 2017, Sandee continued working alongside Taylor Kelly, joining a new sales organization as Vice President of Operations for PaySafe Associates. In 2022, she was promoted to Chief Payments Officer for both PaySafe Associates and AtPoint Solutions.

Sandee is a proven leader in streamlining and scaling vertical-specific ISV ventures, leading them toward profitability and long-term growth. Her organizational strengths and ability to identify growth opportunities have allowed her to build sustainable teams and scalable infrastructure. Her deep industry knowledge and commitment to ongoing education—for both herself and her teams—are central to her leadership style.

In addition to her involvement with Trident 1, Sandee is an active member of the PayTech Women organization, serving as Co-Chair of the PayTech Women – Houston Chapter, and is also a member of the RSPA W2W (Women to Women) Community. She also serves as Executive Vice President of UP Payments, the payment division of Upper Hand software.

Ryan Burns

Lead Project Manager, Former Navy SEAL

Ryan Burns

Lead Project Manager, Former Navy SEAL

Ryan is a seasoned professional with a diverse background spanning military service, entrepreneurship, and project management. Since the spring of 2022, he has served as a Senior Project Manager for Onboarding at Trident1, where he leverages his extensive expertise to streamline processes and drive organizational success.

Prior to joining Trident1, Ryan embarked on a distinguished military career, enlisting in the U.S. Navy in 2006. As a member of an East Coast SEAL Team, he completed three deployments, demonstrating exceptional leadership and tactical proficiency in high-stakes environments.

Following his military service, Ryan transitioned into entrepreneurship by founding and operating his own construction company in Virginia Beach from 2016 to 2021. During this time, he specialized in residential remodeling, building a strong reputation for craftsmanship and customer satisfaction.

Ryan’s multifaceted background—encompassing military leadership, small business ownership, and project management—uniquely positions him to excel in his role at Trident1. With a proven track record of driving results and fostering team success, he brings a wealth of experience and dedication to every endeavor he undertakes.

Fred Papaleo

Client Services Rep, Marine Corps

Fred Papaleo

Client Services Rep, Marine Corps

Fred Papaleo, a former Corporal (Cpl.) in the United States Marine Corps (USMC), is recognized for his exemplary service and dedication to duty. As an Honor Graduate of Coxswain Skills Course 2-11, Fred demonstrated outstanding leadership and proficiency in maritime operations.

During his tenure with the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, Fox Company Weapons Platoon, Fred completed two deployments, showcasing his skills as an 0341 Infantry Mortarman and 0316 CRRC Coxswain. Stationed at MCAGCC Twenty-Nine Palms, California, he consistently exemplified the Marine Corps values of honor, courage, and commitment throughout his service from 2008 to 2012.

Continuing his pursuit of excellence, Fred is currently a student at the Sonoran Desert Institute, School of Gunsmithing, where he is on track to earn his Associate’s Degree in Gunsmithing by the end of the year. A proud Texan and staunch supporter of the Second Amendment, Fred is dedicated to honing his craft and contributing positively to his community.

In March of 2024, Fred joined the Trident 1 team as a Customer Service Specialist, bringing with him a wealth of leadership experience, a commitment to excellence, and a passion for serving others. His transition to the civilian workforce reflects his ongoing dedication to making meaningful contributions to his team and the broader community.

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