If I understand correctly it's a small group.  They will set their objectives for what the pattern will allow, then ask Kegel and their own head lane maintenance man to design the pattern.  When that's complete they have several bowlers with various styles "test" the pattern to see if it accomplishes their goal. 

I may be wrong on some part of that process, but it seems that way each year as I watch their tournament kick-off show.  Anyone else?

Eric Pierson used to be part of the group that designed the patterns he also was at the tournament sites to make sure everything went smoothly.
Last I heard he was caught up in the cuts at the USBC.

Correct!

Hi Mike!   

I thought he was the lane guru.
And he is gone??
Not sure why they would do that

http://www.11thframe.com/news/article/6904  Jeff's comment on his blog.

"....Among the higher profile names in last week's cuts that have since surfaced in social media are Tim Robben, Stefanie Johnson, Eric Pierson and Amanda Vermilyea. (Carolyn Dorin-Ballard confirmed that she left USBC for personal reasons a couple of weeks before these cuts.)

I know and respect all of those named in this story and there’s no doubt they all are losses for USBC.

But this is how it is these days when you’re part of an organization facing declining revenue."

Scott33
If they are so short of cash, how do they sponsor a losing and proven a loser in the women's tour?.....

I reported Jeff Richgels link and his story not mine BobOhio.  See link and story.  I actually kinda agree with you.  If you support one part of bowling and not equally it in some ways doesn't seem fair but whoever thought bowling was fair ie. lefty/righty discussions or lane conditions ad infinitum.   

Link read whole story.  http://www.11thframe.com/news/article/6904