I graduated from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly) with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. During college I worked at an outdoor gear shop, the campus climbing wall, and at a high and low ropes course. After two years at the ropes course I became the trainer for new hires and current employees looking to renew their high ropes certification. Working with my university’s outdoor organization, I discovered a passion for leading groups in the backcountry. After some time with Cal Poly’s outdoor program, including two 8-day trips to the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness, I interned with Big City Mountaineers, a nonprofit that collaborates with youth organizations to lead inner city teens on backpacking trips.
In 2009, I worked as a crew leader for the Los Padres center of the California Conservation Corps, on a special program designed to give work experience to 15-21 year olds. Three weeks ago I returned from a wonderful five-month trip around New Zealand. I enjoyed hiking and backpacking and climbing there, but am VERY excited to return to the Sierras of Northern California. Our season together will be my first with the SCA Trail Corps.
I believe that the most effective crew leader is one who encourages growth in the skills and personal development of crew members, manages difficulties in a calm and reasonable way, and promotes an emotionally and physically safe working environment. I am easygoing and relaxed about many things, but take respect of coworkers and the prevention of accidents very seriously. I think it is important, especially in a backcountry crew, to allow group members to make decisions whenever possible, and to give individuals a chance to act as a leader. My goal for this summer is to encourage everyone to fine-tune previously acquired skills, learn new ones, and teach others to the group. I am looking forward to the incredible bond that backcountry teams form, and all the laughter and fun that goes along with it.
Other than the obvious (backpacking, hiking, sleeping outdoors, swimming in alpine lakes), my personal interests include riding my bike, baking, reading, struggling through crossword puzzles, and mass amounts of card games. Earnest Shackleton is my current hero.
