The Joshua Tree Project: Our Story
The Joshua Tree symbolizes strength, resilience, and the ability to thrive in challenging conditions, much like the individuals we support at the Joshua Tree Project. Just as this iconic tree stands tall and adapts to its harsh environment, our mission is to provide accessible technology—such as hearing aids and AR glasses—that empowers individuals with disabilities to overcome obstacles and fully experience the world. Rooted in community and driven by the belief that everyone has the potential to grow and flourish, we are dedicated to helping others reach new heights, just as the Joshua Tree reaches for the sky.
Colette's Journey
Colette's story begins with a childhood illness that changed the course of her life. At a young age, she was given antibiotics that, while necessary, unfortunately killed the nerves in her ears, leaving her hearing impaired. Despite this challenge, Colette's resilience shone through. She attended a deaf school, but in an unusual twist of fate, she never learned American Sign Language (ASL). Instead, Colette navigated the world on her own terms, using her unique experiences to shape her life.
As an adult, Colette embraced her role as the CEO of her household, raising four incredible children and nurturing three beloved fur babies. Her love for life extends beyond her family; she has a passion for floral farming, where she finds a profound connection to the earth. Whether tending to her flowers or guiding her family, Colette's strength and love are the roots that ground her.
Josh's Journey
Josh’s journey is one filled with passion for sports and entertainment. His career took off in the exciting world of the NBA, where he worked for the Utah Jazz. It was here that Josh's life took a significant turn. From the moment he met Colette, he knew they were meant to spend eternity together—a love that would guide them through their shared adventures.
Josh’s professional life flourished as he eventually became the owner of the SEAT Conference, a gathering that unites technology professionals from pro sports, collegiate athletics, and the performing arts. The SEAT Conference is where ideas are exchanged, and the future of fan experiences is shaped by cutting-edge technology.
However, the most transformative moment in Josh’s career came while he was with the Utah Jazz. He was involved in creating a life-changing experience for a young fan who attended a playoff game. This fan, who was visually impaired, was given the opportunity to use eSight glasses, allowing them to see the game in a way they never thought possible. This moment of seeing the joy and awe in that young fan’s face became the highlight of Josh’s career. It was a moment that changed his perspective on the power of technology—how it can profoundly impact people's lives and allow them to experience the world more fully.
Alison’s Journey
Alison’s journey is about a woman who didn’t always recognize her own potential—who often felt different and out of place—until she learned to embrace those differences and believe in herself. That realization changed everything. What began as a typical HR career turned into a passion for leadership, people, and helping others see the power in what makes them unique.
Alison has made it her mission to create spaces where everyone feels seen and valued. She believes that the real power of a team comes from embracing each person’s uniqueness and fostering a culture of inclusion. It’s not just about scaling tech companies or managing M&A—Alison is focused on building leadership programs and environments where people feel empowered to show up as their authentic selves.
For Alison, the most rewarding part of her work is seeing those she’s mentored thrive—watching them grow into their strengths, step confidently forward in their lives, and know that they belong. She’s passionate about creating inclusive cultures where diversity of thought and experience is celebrated, and where individuals and organizations alike can reach their fullest potential.
The Birth of the
Joshua Tree Project
Inspired by their personal experiences and the life-changing impact of technology, Colette, Josh and Alison founded the Joshua Tree Project. The project’s mission is simple yet powerful: to provide individuals with disabilities the technology they need to experience the world more fully. From advanced hearing aids to AR glasses, the Joshua Tree Project is committed to making these essential tools accessible to those who need them most.
Colette’s deep connection to the earth and Josh’s passion for technology have combined to create a project that is rooted in compassion, innovation, and a belief in the power of human connection. The Joshua Tree Project stands as a testament to their love for each other and their shared commitment to making a difference in the world.
Through this project, Colette and Josh hope to touch lives, just as their own lives have been touched by the experiences that brought them together. Whether it’s helping someone hear the sound of their child’s voice for the first time or enabling a fan to see their favorite team play, the Joshua Tree Project is dedicated to making sure that everyone has the opportunity to experience life to its fullest.