Jonathon grew up hiking, climbing, and skiing in the Pacific Northwest. Early on he made outdoor pursuits his profession, and graduated from Western Colorado University with a Bachelor’s degree in Outdoor Recreation and Business. Jonathon obtained his AMGA/IFMGA certification in 2007, and at the time was one of the youngest Americans to become an IFMGA-licensed mountain guide. Jonathon’s passion for the mountains and guiding has only grown over the years. He has climbed and guided throughout the Cascades, the Alaska Range, the Himalaya, European Alps, much of the western US, and many locations in South America. Jonathon started guiding with Alpine Ascents International in 2007. He has also spent over a decade working as a heli-ski guide and operations manager in the winter, and doing research in avalanche mitigation and risk management. In 2016, Jonathon was a keynote speaker at the ISSW (International Snow Science Workshop), where he educated avalanche industry professionals about operational risk management. Jonathon also has an extensive background in mechanized ski guiding along with high altitude expedition guiding .

One of the most rewarding aspects of working as an Instructor for the American Mountain Guides Association is the opportunity to educate and mentor the next generation of mountain guides. Through instruction, we not only help individuals refine their technical and decision-making skills, but also contribute to elevating industry standards. By fostering a culture of professionalism, safety, and situational awareness, we play a key role in making the guiding community stronger, more informed, and ultimately safer—for both guides and their clients. It's an incredibly meaningful way to give back to the profession while shaping the future of mountain leadership.

I love spending time with my family and sharing the outdoors with my son Ari.