About Us | Black Ridge Systems

why we started black ridge

We started Black Ridge Systems because we kept seeing the same pattern: great technology, poor results.

Automation tools were being overhyped and pushed out without proper context, without user buy-in, and without lasting impact. Projects looked good on paper but fell apart in practice, absolutely disconnected from the people and processes they were supposed to improve.

We knew there was a better way.

At Black Ridge, we combine business analysis with change management to deliver solutions that stick. We get to the root of operational problems, design with real people in mind, and guide organizations through the change — not just the tech.

Our approach is collaborative, practical, and grounded in outcomes. We turn complexity into clarity, streamline how work gets done, and help teams unlock real ROI from day one.

From first conversation to final rollout (and long after), we show up as partners — aligning systems, strategy, and people to make sure the work works.

OUR VALUES

impact over hype

We don’t chase shiny objects. We solve real business problems and drive meaningful results.

speed with integrity

We move fast, but never cut corners. Our solutions are reliable, maintainable, and built to last.

trust through
transparency

We say what we mean and mean what we say — even when it’s hard, because trust is built on honesty, not convenience.

partnership over
transaction

We embed into your team — bringing experience, empathy, and long-term thinking to every engagement.

innovation with purpose

We don’t use tech for novelty. We apply it where it truly moves the needle — creating lasting change.

respect for context

We tailor every solution to fit your goals, culture, and constraints — no plug-and-play shortcuts, no one-size-fits-all fixes.

clarity over complexity

AI shouldn’t be confusing. We make it simple, understandable, and usable for real people.

empowerment through automation

AI should enhance human capability, not replace it. We build tools that help people do more of what they do best.

people before
platforms

We prioritize relationships over rigid systems — listening, adapting, and showing up like part of your team.

from the founders

We built Black Ridge to stay close to the work and the people. As a small, experienced team, we lead every project ourselves, combining our backgrounds in transformation, AI, and change to deliver solutions that actually stick. When you work with Black Ridge, you work with us.

We wouldn't have it any other way.

Co-Founder and Managing Partner

Brent Steele

With over 20 years of experience leading high-impact, cross-functional projects, I help organizations move from big-picture vision to day-to-day execution. My work spans industries and business models — from launching Martha Stewart’s CBD e-commerce store to helping Nordstrom elevate its customer service platform — with a focus on building systems that actually solve the problem.

I specialize in uncovering root causes, translating complex needs into clear solutions, and designing workflows that drive measurable results. With a practical, detail-oriented mindset, I bring structure to ambiguity and make sure the solution fits the real-world context it’s built for.

Co-Founder and Managing Partner

Chelsea Walsh

With over 20 years of experience leading change across organizations of all sizes, I help teams navigate transformation with clarity, alignment, and real results. My background spans everything from large-scale enterprise initiatives to running my own e-commerce businesses — giving me firsthand insight into the challenges real people face when systems, tools, and workflows don’t align.

I specialize in making change feel less chaotic and more meaningful, whether that means simplifying complexity, engaging the right voices, or translating strategy into action. My approach is grounded, practical, and always focused on what actually works — not just what looks good in a slide deck.