When Devon Phillips first got into night vision and thermal gear, it wasn’t as a business move, it was a passion project.
“Honestly, it started as a hobby,” Devon says. “I was always interested in night vision and thermal gear, and the more I learned, the more people started coming to me with questions. Over time, it grew into something bigger. I realized there was a real need for good gear and straight answers, so I turned it into a business.”
That business became Specter Solutions LLC, a small defense company based in Ohio that provides night vision, thermal equipment, and training to military, law enforcement, and civilian professionals.
For Devon, the work is really about being someone people can rely on. “Whether it’s selling equipment or running training, folks are trusting me with something that could matter in a big way for them. It’s about giving them the tools and the confidence to do what they need to do, and doing it right.”
That mindset drives everything Devon does. “I’ve got military, cops, private sector, and regular people counting on me to set them up with gear and skills they can trust,” he says. “That keeps me going even on long days and nights.”
One moment that stands out for Devon reinforced just how impactful that work can be. “A department bought thermals from us and went through training on how to use them. Just a few days later, they used those same devices to track down and apprehend violent offenders. They told me that without the thermals, they probably wouldn’t have found them. Hearing that drove home how important this work really is.”
If he had to sum up his mission in one word, it would be capability: equipping others to perform at their best when it matters most.
“It’s not just about buying cool gear,” he adds. “Without the right training and mindset, the best gear in the world won’t help you.”
That belief extends to how Devon sees his role in shaping the next generation. “This work comes with a lot of responsibility. If you take it seriously and do things the right way, you can make a real difference for the people who count on you.”
When he’s not working, Devon makes time to recharge by spending time outdoors, with family and friends, or training himself. “I enjoy slowing down a bit and being around good people,” he says.
As for protection on the job, Devon doesn’t compromise. “At the end of the day, you only get one head,” he says. “The work I do involves long nights, moving fast, and running gear that gets put to the test. Having solid protection isn’t optional—it’s what keeps you in the fight and able to focus. I use the HHV ATE Lite helmet since it fits well, takes the abuse, and lets me run my night vision and accessories without issues.”
Being part of the HHV community means more to Devon than just wearing the gear. “It’s about being part of a group of people who actually use their equipment and care about doing things right. It’s not just buying a helmet, it’s connecting with others who are training, learning, and sharing the same mindset of being prepared and looking out for each other.”
From a hobbyist to a business owner making a real impact, Devon’s journey is built on a simple truth: capability is earned, and it’s meant to be shared.