The Story
In the last twenty years I’ve spent time each week in the mountains. And I've learned a few things: As humans I think we are constantly being asked and have asked ourselves if we are capable enough, if we can overcome the challenge, if we have what it takes to meet the goals, if we can accomplish our mission.
I discovered that the mountains have an unmatched way of testing our mettle and revealing our true capabilities. I'll never forget my first solo elk harvest – standing there at first light with a mature 6-point bull in my crosshairs, asking myself if I could handle everything that would come next. That moment, and many others like it in the backcountry, taught me that success comes from meticulous preparation, choosing confidence, and having the right tools for the job.
There are other ways to experience those elements in life and to develop those thoughts and ideas, perhaps through sports, the military, being a business owner, or being a father. But I have felt the backcountry has a special blend of challenge and experience and personal renewal that is quite unique. I’ve learned to be strategic in my planning, I’ve struggled with discipline in my preparation at times, and I’ve enjoyed the feeling of accomplishment that comes from pursuing and achieving my backcountry goals.
As a mechanical engineer with over two decades of product design experience, I've dedicated my career to creating solutions that work in the real world. My path has taken me from hands-on work as a carpenter to designing safety equipment for outdoor athletes at Scott USA, where I learned that gear failures aren't just inconvenient – they can end an adventure or compromise safety when you're miles from help.
