40 Under 40: Tyler Bourns
Chief Marketing Officer; Dragonfly Energy; With company: 4 years | Industry experience: 9 years
Tyler Bourns began as a contractor with Dragonfly Energy, where his media production company was a key partner from 2016 to 2021. Following the acquisition of his business by Dragonfly, Tyler was promoted to senior vice president of marketing and subsequently to chief marketing officer.
“His leadership has been crucial in guiding the company through its public listing on NASDAQ in late 2022, marking a significant milestone in the company’s growth,” says nominator Kathy Wholley. “Tyler exemplifies leadership through his innovative approach to marketing and storytelling at Dragonfly Energy. As chief marketing officer, Tyler has been instrumental in advancing the adoption of lithium technology within the RV community. His leadership is marked by his commitment to educating and informing RVers through compelling content.”
Tyler has spearheaded the production of hundreds of targeted videos that have effectively communicated the benefits of lithium batteries. His extensive background in content creation, including producing award-winning work for global brands and directing acclaimed films, underscores his ability to craft narratives that resonate across diverse audiences.
This past June, Tyler traveled to Washington, D.C., to advocate for the future of RVing in America on Capitol Hill during RVs Move America Week.
Advancing both the company and the industry as a whole, Tyler has used his marketing acumen to position Battle Born Batteries as a premium product.
“By leveraging high-profile influencers, celebrity endorsements and extensive educational resources — such as the launch of the Battle Born Academy — Tyler and his team have maintained the brand’s leading edge. His innovative approach includes adopting the latest marketing trends, such as podcasting, CTV advertising and unique retargeting campaigns,” says Kathy. “Notably, Tyler played a crucial role in a landmark $30 million licensing deal with Stryten Energy and facilitated a unique Amazon partnership, making Battle Born the first high-capacity lithium battery to earn an Amazon Prime Badge. These strategic moves have solidified Battle Born’s position as a top choice in the industry.”
Since joining Dragonfly Energy, Tyler has been integral in transforming the company from a startup into a publicly traded entity with revenues nearing $100 million during the RV boom.
In his free time, Tyler is passionate about travel, hiking and wine tasting. He cherishes adventures with his wife, young son and border collie. He also spends time giving back, serving on the Under30CEO board of directors in Reno, Nevada, for two years, encouraging, collaborating and training young business leaders in the community. Tyler says he’s “committed to giving back by supporting youth, community and industry organizations, reflecting a belief that success should also create opportunities for others.”
Tyler’s advice for up-and-coming leaders in the RV industry:
Stay focused on creating genuine value for the end customer and let authenticity drive your decisions. The RV industry is built on passion, adventure and community — leaders who can listen, learn and tell stories that resonate will not only earn trust but also help move the entire industry forward.
What it means to Tyler to be a 40 Under 40 honoree:
Being recognized as part of 40 Under 40 is an honor that reflects not just my individual work but also the incredible team and partners I’ve had the privilege of working alongside. The RV industry has given me the opportunity to combine innovation with storytelling, and this recognition reinforces my commitment to continuing to help shape the future of RVing through education, technology and community building.
