Originally from Thornton, Colorado, Zach joined the Navy in 1996 where he spent 25 years as a Navy SEAL. He is a qualified USASOC Senior Mountaineer and considered a Subject Matter Expert within SOF, with the majority of his career focused on arctic and mountain warfare. His vast experience and proven leadership in program development and safe implementation makes him a highly valued asset to any organization. In addition to his military service Zach is an AMGA Apprentice Rock Guide for The Mountain Guides Montana, a graduate of Colorado Mountain College’s Avalanche Science Program and a Certified Avalanche Field Technician. Additional certifications include an A3 Pro 1, NSP Alpine & Nordic Ski Patroller, AIARE Instructor, The Patrol Fund Avalanche Instructor, PSIA Alpine Level I Candidate, and former member of the California Office of Emergency Services (OES) Winter Search and Rescue Team (SAR) South. When not in the field for work or volunteer activities he can be found pursuing various mountain sports to include fly fishing, climbing, paragliding and seeking new adventures with his wife and two sons.