Expertise & Background

• Topics of Expertise: Backcountry skiing, hiking, backpacking, camping, rock climbing, mountaineering
• Education: B.A in Chemistry from Western Washington University
• Years of Gear Testing: 3
• Certifications: AIARE Level 1 and 2, WFR, Petzl PPE Competent Person

Why I Chose This Career

When I am not tied down by work, my time is spent preparing for, daydreaming of, or doing mountain-related activities. I am the textbook definition of a weekend warrior, so having gear that performs well is important to me because I have limited time to do what I am passionate about. I found myself gear testing before I even knew it was a field of expertise: I have a tendency to be really hard on gear in an effort to perfect my kit.

How I Began My Career

As manager of a local gear shop for a guide service, I spent an ample amount of time preparing groups for mountain objectives. By the end of my stint, I was in charge of ordering, organizing, and operating a retail space that specialized in selling and reviewing niche alpine climbing and skiing equipment. Needless to say, I get gear.