Our Story
We often call ourselves “the longest existing startup”, but that’s just because we are always up to something new.
John Pulsipher
Founder & CEO
Hi, I’m John Pulsipher, founder of Staffing Backbone. I didn’t take the conventional path to leadership. I didn’t go to college. I grew up in Wenatchee, a small town in central Washington, where life was anything but easy. My father struggled with alcoholism. We moved 18 times before I finished 8th grade — sometimes into homes where the roof leaked, and we’d place buckets under the ceiling to catch the rain.
Those early experiences taught me two things: compassion for people facing tough times, and a deep belief in hard work and integrity.
When I stumbled into the staffing industry 42 years ago, it wasn’t just a job — it was a calling. I saw firsthand how powerful it is to help someone find meaningful work, especially when they need it most. That’s what fueled me then, and it’s still what fuels me now.
I created Staffing Backbone to bring that same spirit of purpose into technology. We’re not just building software — we’re building tools that empower staffing professionals to do what they do best: help people, build businesses, and change lives.
I know that respect isn’t given; it’s earned. My hope is that by sharing a bit of my truth, you’ll understand the heart behind this company — and that we’ll have the opportunity to earn your trust.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about me.
Chris Flath
President
Chris’s tech career began decades ago with punch cards and Fortran on IBM mainframes—his PhD father’s vision of the future. After a decade developing software, he pivoted to IT system design and process improvement, consulting nationally for diverse clients from chocolate factories to gold mines. He designed IT staffing models, workflows, infrastructure projects, and even engineered microwave tower construction in winter desert conditions.
Exhausted from constant travel, Chris told key client John he wanted a “simpler life.” John’s response: “Let’s start a company together”—launching what became Staffing Backbone.
After multiple platform rewrites to leverage emerging technologies and adapt to evolving employment markets, they built their current system meeting both marketplace needs and their own standards. As Chris often said in industry seminars: “In technology, ‘getting there’ is all the fun—because you’re never really there.” With AI and machine learning, they’re improving but never “done.”
Ironically, Chris’s “simpler life” included becoming a Reserve Police Officer, rising to Reserve Police Captain overseeing volunteer officers. Leveraging his tech background and chemistry education, he joined a bomb squad, responding to over 400 live explosive/hazardous events regionwide. Despite some close calls, he still has all 10 fingers.
Matt Guerrero
Vice President | Sales Kingpin
Matt leads national sales and strategic growth for this cutting-edge workforce management platform. With over 18 years of experience in the staffing and talent solutions industry, Matt brings deep insight into the challenges companies face when managing high-volume and contingent workforces.
Staffing Backbone was built to streamline operations for internal recruiting teams and staffing firms alike—offering powerful CRM and ATS functionality, automated compliance workflows, and real-time visibility into workforce activity. Matt is passionate about helping organizations modernize their processes, reduce administrative burden, and improve talent engagement.
A strategic thinker with a hands-on approach, Matt is committed to delivering innovative solutions that solve real operational pain points. His focus remains on driving measurable results for clients through technology that’s built by recruiters, for recruiters.
Richard Nulanz
Accounting Master
With a deep respect for the facts and an unwavering commitment to precision, Richard approaches accounting the way it should be done…. carefully, methodically, and with every “T” crossed and every “i” dotted. He believes that accuracy isn’t just a technical requirement; it’s the foundation of trust, clarity, and sound decision-making. Outside the office, Richard brings the same curiosity and focus to life. You’ll often find him on a pickleball court enjoying the strategy and rhythm of the game, or traveling to places he’s never been before exploring how cultures, systems, and people can be wonderfully different, yet fundamentally the same. It’s this blend of precision and perspective that shapes both his work and his worldview.
Jessica Hunt-West
Operations & Training
Jessica Hunt-West obtained her bachelor’s degree in biological sciences from California State University, Sacramento, and her master’s degree in forensic science from National University. She began her career in post-secondary education, providing career counseling and workforce training to graduates. With over eight years of business development and recruitment experience, Hunt-West has worked in staffing & career services, providing workforce development and strategic staffing support to small, medium, and large companies. In addition to her professional pursuits, Hunt-West enjoys traveling and conducting motivational talks and presentations to small and large groups on various topics.
Vikram Reddy
Product Manager | Lead Developer
I’m a Product Manager leading the development of a product from the ground up – from concept to launch. With a strong focus on user needs, cross-functional collaboration, and agile execution, I work closely with design, engineering, and business teams to shape products that deliver real value. My passion lies in turning ideas into scalable, impactful solutions.
Paul Odom
Marketing Mastermind
Get a Backbone!
At Staffing Backbone, we’re not just another staffing software – we’re changing the rules of the game. Our platform puts people first, treating candidates with respect and empowering agencies to work smarter, not harder. With our unique database sharing system, we’re expanding opportunities for everyone in the staffing ecosystem. What are you waiting for?
Get started today and get a backbone!
