As we have been developing Adventure Careers, I’ve been prompted to revisit my Aerial Adventure Origin Story. My journey didn’t begin with my first interview but through a series of jobs and careers that led me to this industry.
Much of my career growth stemmed from connecting with the right people at the right times. I was fortunate to find mentors who facilitated my development and positioned me to learn and grow. This wasn’t just luck; it was the result of hard work and intentional networking with professionals.
In my early years, I honed leadership skills and gained invaluable experience in rigging and general construction under Bob Yeager at Sellen Construction in Seattle. Bob instilled in me the principles of hard work, volunteering for new challenges, and actively seeking opportunities to learn and advance my skills. Despite initial skepticism from crews due to my age and limited experience, Bob taught me to lead by example, excel through hard work, and encourage collaboration and knowledge-sharing among team members, albeit through a traditional construction approach.
Over the years, I explored numerous short-term seasonal jobs and sampled various career paths, applying the lessons imparted by Bob and other mentors. Each role enriched my skill set and provided opportunities to learn from exceptional mentors.
My entry into the Aerial Adventure Industry was serendipitous. While pursuing seasonal work in a mountain town, a friend alerted me to a compelling job listing on Craigslist. I applied, interviewed with John Walker, founder and then-president of Bonsai Design, and despite a two-year project cycle misalignment due to my stints with the US Forest Service and ski hills, I eventually landed my first job building zip lines in the fall of 2010.
My diverse background proved instrumental in navigating this new industry, bolstered further by the guidance of John Walker, Brandon Skupski, Mark Craven, and a brief but impactful cameo role with Victor Gallo at Bonsai. They not only taught me the intricacies of designing and building aerial adventures but also integrated practices from industrial construction, tree work, and recreational climbing. Notably, my collaboration with Victor Gallo on a significant canopy tour build in Hawaii was a pivotal experience that fueled my professional growth.
As my career evolved, I sought out role models within the industry, attending conferences, collaborating with vendors, and building a network of trusted contacts. Volunteering with the ACCT Inspector Certification Panel proved transformative, granting me access to invaluable advice and mentorship.
Following a rewarding tenure with Bonsai Design, I felt compelled to explore consulting and entrepreneurship further. Joining Vertical Solutions Consulting under Jamie Miele and Micah Henderson provided fresh opportunities and a supportive environment that fostered substantial personal and professional growth. Ultimately, this journey culminated in co-founding Adventure Careers, where I continue to learn from remarkable colleagues.
The essence of my journey? Embrace opportunities, commit to excellence, nurture professional relationships, and contribute to the industry through volunteering. I owe immense gratitude to the individuals on my ‘phone-a-friend’ list and those who have guided and supported me throughout my journey in this vibrant community.
