Our Story
In March of 2025, life took an unexpected turn. After years of proudly serving as an Air Traffic Controller—a journey that began in 2000 with the United States Air Force and continued with the FAA in 2006—I was diagnosed with PTSD, generalized anxiety, and severe panic disorder. The news was devastating. The career to which I had devoted my life was suddenly out of reach. However, where one chapter ends, another begins.
As I learned to navigate my diagnoses and better understand mental health,, I realized that many do not have an understanding about this subject. I wanted to find a way to educate and bring more awareness to the public.
For years, I had dreamed of creating my own clothing line—something meaningful, something that stood for more than just style. I knew that could make a difference, and realized this could be a vehicle to shed light on this human condition – it was time to bring my dream to life. With the support of some incredible people, FORTEZZA was born.
The word Fortezza is Italian for fortress, but it personally carries a deeper meaning: strength of mind. This idea—mental fortitude, resilience, and peace within—has become the foundation of our brand.
At FORTEZZA, we believe strength isn’t about never struggling. It’s about facing your battles, and finding the courage to keep going. We stand with veterans, with those fighting silent wars, and with anyone learning to rebuild their own fortress of strength.
Care Contribution
Fortezza will donate a portion of all proceeds to the 988 Suicide Hotline services, by Vibrant Emotional Health, a system that works every day to ensure all 331 million people in the United States have access to support when, where, and how they need it.
Vibrant is one of the nation’s leading mental health organizations, delivering groundbreaking solutions, high-quality services, and support for more than 50 years. Through education, advocacy, community programs, business solutions, and services, Vibrant’s work strives for systemic change for mental health and achieving emotional well-being.
Using cutting-edge technology, Vibrant administers the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, Disaster Distress Helpline, Veterans Crisis Line, and the NFL Life Line. These services connect millions of individuals with round-the-clock life-saving support through call, text, and chat in English, Spanish, and over 240 other languages including DDH and 988 ASL Videophone
