Rick E. grew up near the north slope of the Uinta mountains in Evanston, WY. Following his dad (a Forest Ranger) around the local National Forests on snowmobiles, skis, dirtbikes, horses, and on foot from a young age. It was through these modalities that as young as 10 years old Rick E. was starting to learn how to identify and move through avalanche terrain on skis or maneuvering a snowmobile. Later on, his years as a Navy SEAL gave him a depth of training and experience moving through high risk environments that translated seamlessly into the backcountry mountain environment. In his post-military life, this common connection led him to form great friends and mentors that continued to help refine his skillset in these wild places. Over the last decade these adventures have materialized in the form of splitboard traverses across Colorado, first descents, and more unique forms of accessing skiable terrain like bikepacking or packrafting with veterans, friends, and as tributes to fallen brothers. After years of visiting and playing in the San Juans, Rick E. was finally convinced that he should call Silverton home and put some of these skills and experiences to use working for the Silverton Avalanche School. He’s looking forward to many more winters with this inspiring group of people.