Katie Thoma

Executive Director

Katie has been with Aspiro since 2013 and has worn many hats within the organization including Chief Financial Officer, and Controller. Katie came to Aspiro with over twenty years of experience managing businesses with an emphasis on accounting and financial planning. Throughout her tenure, Katie has helped carry out the vision of Aspiro with a dedication to innovation, client care, and excellent customer service. She has developed a deep understanding of Aspiro which contributes to her insightful and practical perspectives on the planning and oversight of the company. Katie believes that building a strong team is the best way to ensure success for Aspiro students and a positive work environment for employees. Kaite’s vision for Aspiro is to continue to bring meaningful experiences to students and provide a supportive and positive environment for employees.

Katie graduated from the University of Northern Iowa, where earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and worked primarily with Middle School and High School age students. After graduating, she found her love for business, especially startups, where she developed a knack for problem-solving in a business setting which has translated to her several roles at Aspiro.

In Katie’s free time you can find her woodworking and running back and forth from Home Depot for home improvement supplies. Katie is also an avid runner and cyclist.

Leah Shingler

Admissions Director

Leah is a graduate of Sterling College, where her passion for outdoor education and wilderness therapy truly began. She joins the Aspiro team with over 20 years of experience in the field of Wilderness Therapy where she has worked in various capacities, ranging from Field Guide to Director of Admissions and Outreach. Leah brings with her a genuine passion for assisting families and referring professionals in finding the best possible solutions for the difficult situations they face. Leah is dedicated to helping students, families and employees achieve growth, healing and personal well-being. Her professional and caring approach instantly fosters trust and connection for those with whom she works. While she has lived in many beautiful regions of the country, Leah grew up in Western Massachusetts and still remains a New Englander at heart. When she is not working Leah enjoys spending time with her husband, friends and fur baby, Josie. She also loves watching most sports, eating most foods, playing golf, road biking, adventuring to new destinations and finding new home-improvement projects to do.

Dr. Rachel Wheeler, MD

Psychiatrist

Dr. Rachel Wheeler provides Aspiro students with psychiatric care, including medication management. She received her Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine and has practiced medicine for more than 20 years. Dr. Wheeler completed an adult residency at Wayne State University in Detroit, MI, during medical school. After residency, she transferred to The University of Utah and completed a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at Primary Children’s Hospital. Dr. Wheeler believes in the importance of involving the family in psychiatric care and is an advocate for doing so. She also recognizes the importance of various treatment modalities when working with her patients, including adventure therapy. She believes that wilderness adventure therapy increases gratitude and helps students overcome stressful and unique circumstances. Dr. Wheeler lives an active lifestyle and has personally benefited from various activities that nurture the mind and body.

Jamie Kaczmarek, LCSW

Executive Clinical Director | Vantage Point Males & Females, Ages 13-17

Master’s in Social Work from the University of Utah
Licensed Clinical social Worker in the State of Utah
Bachelors in Psychology and Outdoor Recreation from Indiana University
Clinical emphasis in Autism Spectrum Disorders encompassing Cognitive, Solution-focused, Collaborative Problem solving, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies.

Also specializes in: Autism Spectrum Disorders / NLD / Family Systems / Depression / Attachment / ADHD / Mood Disorders / Anxiety / Addiction / Learning Differences / Trauma

Jamie is a Clinical Supervisor for Aspiro’s Vantage Point program. She holds a B.S. in Outdoor Recreation, emphasizing Environmental Education from Indiana University, and a Master’s in Social Work from The University of Utah. Jamie began her career in the wilderness therapy field over 22 years ago. She specializes in working with students who are neurodiverse and designs treatment plans that focus on social pragmatics, emotional regulation techniques, executive functioning skill-building, and developing reciprocal relationships. With Jamie’s guidance and the support of the entire Vantage Point team, students build up their self-efficacy while being given many opportunities to learn what it takes to succeed.

Jamie’s love for the wilderness influenced her to study outdoor recreation and environmental education. After completing her bachelor’s degree, Jamie attended the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), where she trained in leadership and team dynamics via an experiential adventure approach. This additional training is something that Jamie integrates into her work with the Vantage Point program.

You can find Jamie mountain biking, hiking, or skiing with her family and her dog Lewis during her free time.

Shane Whiting, PhD

Associate Clinical Director | VP Adolescent Males, Ages 13-17

Ph. D. from the University of Louisiana at Monroe
BS from Brigham Young University
Clinical member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy

Also specializes in: Autism Spectrum Disorders / NLD / Pervasive Developmental Disorder / Depression / Attachment / ADHD / Anxiety / Learning Differences / Neurodiversity

Throughout his career, Dr. Whiting has served as Executive Director, Clinical Director, and therapist at Utah therapeutic boarding schools and therapeutic programs. He specializes in working with adolescents diagnosed with Nonverbal Learning Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder. He also has experience providing in-home family therapy.

In addition to his professional pursuits, Dr. Whiting is a devoted husband and father. He has been married to his wife since 1999 and they have four children with whom they enjoy camping, fishing, horseback riding, hiking, and 4-wheeling.

David Mayeski, LCSW

Family Services Director

University of Maryland, College Park Bachelor of Arts Government and Politics 1993
University of South Carolina, Columbia Master of Social Work 1997
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, 2003 Licensed Mental Health Counselor Supervisor
17 + years experience in Residential Treatment settings
Family Systems Trainer
Clinical Supervisor

Also specializes in: Family Systems Work / Understanding Family Roles, Dynamics and Power Struggles / Genograms

David comes to Aspiro with almost 20 years of experience working with families in therapeutic programs. Originally David received his Bachelor’s degree in Government and Politics and went on to earn his Master of Social Work.

Prior to joining Aspiro, David served in many capacities at highly respected residential treatment centers as a primary therapist, Admissions Director, and Clinical Director. After working as a primary therapist for two years, he was awarded his License in Clinical Social Work (LCSW) in 2003 and has continued practicing therapy with students and their families. His desire to help families heal and overcome obstacles, his years of experience, and his clinical sophistication, make him the perfect match as the Family Services Director where he continues to help families heal through parent coaching, therapy sessions, webinars, and during groups over Aspiro’s Parent Seminars.

David is passionate about helping others and guiding families through their journey of connecting and healing as a system. David enjoys talking politics, playing a round of golf, and especially cherishes time with his beautiful wife and three children.

Jamie Ahern, LCSW

Adolescent Males, Ages 13-17

Bachelor’s in Human Services from Black Hills State University
Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Tennessee
Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Utah
Trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Positive Psychology

Also specializes in: Trauma / Relationships / Emotional Regulation / ADHD / Executive Functioning Skills / Anxiety / Depression / Substance Use / Learning Differences.

Jamie has been a mental health therapist since 2011. He was first introduced to wilderness and adventure therapy as a field guide at Aspiro. After working as an Aspiro therapist for nearly 4 years, he relocated and provided therapy services in an underserved area of rural Montana. It was during this time that he found a passion for helping his clients recover from trauma, utilizing EMDR therapy as a core treatment modality in addition to a variety of other therapeutic modalities such as CBT, DBT and motivational interviewing. He returned to wilderness therapy after working with community mental health and is happy to now be back at Aspiro. Jamie is a warm and inviting therapist with a passion for helping young people and families in need. He strives to establish a non-judgmental and mutually respectful therapeutic relationship with his students and works very closely with their families, supporting them during their child’s stay and inviting them to challenge their own patterns.

Jamie wholeheartedly believes in and is passionate about the healing power, growth opportunities and excitement found in the outdoors. His free time is spent with his wife in pursuits such as fly fishing, hunting, mountain biking, and skiing. He also enjoys tying flies, playing the banjo, and spending time with his dogs.

Jordan Wright, CMHC

Adolescent Males, Ages 13-17

Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of Utah
Bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
Masters of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
Trained in Brainspotting (BSP-Phase I).

Also specializes in: Trauma-focused Therapy (Brainspotting) / Substance Use Treatment / Identity Concerns / Treatment Resistance / Anxiety / Depression / ADHD / Risky Behaviors / Parent-child Relational Concerns.

Jordan Wright is a licensed mental health therapist with a passion for helping families and individuals navigate difficult times. With a strong background in crisis management, conflict resolution, nature-assisted therapy, brainspotting, trauma responses, experiential therapy, and substance use, Jordan is equipped to support clients at all stages of their journey.

Jordan has worked in the wilderness therapy industry since 2019, where he has gained a deep understanding of families in crisis. He specializes in working with adolescent boys and young adult males struggling with substance use, behavioral issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, and life transitions.

Jordan believes in meeting clients “where they’re at,” both literally and figuratively, and believes that growth can happen in any environment, whether on a trail or beside a creek. He is dedicated to helping students thrive in the wilderness and heal their family relationships.

Elise Scribner, LCSW

Adolescent Females, Ages 13-17

Portland State University, Master of Social Work
Quest University Canada, Bachelor of Social Justice
Trained in EMDR, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Attachment Family Therapy, SMART Recovery, Art Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing
Safe Zone Certification working with the LGBTQ+ population

Also specializes in: Trauma-Informed Care / ADHD / Self-Esteem Issues / Depression / Anxiety / Mindfulness / SMART Recovery

Elise began working at Aspiro as a field guide in 2015. After witnessing the profound impact that wilderness therapy had on the youth and young adults she worked with, Elise decided to return to school to become a wilderness therapist. Elise moved back to her hometown of Portland, Oregon, to attend graduate school at Portland State University where she earned her Master of Social Work and became a Licensed School Social Worker. Her Bachelor’s degree in Social Justice that she received from Quest University Canada in Squamish, British Columbia, helped provide a strong foundation for her focus on equity as she completed her master’s program.

Elise’s therapeutic approach is strengths-based, student-centered, and trauma-Informed. She integrates Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy while maintaining an equity lens with her students. Elise has used this approach while working with children in the foster care system and with teens in academic settings who struggled with challenges such as early trauma, depression, anxiety, and identity development. Elise believes that everyone deserves to live a life worth living and sees therapy as one step that can help young people move toward achieving their goals. In her free time, Elise likes to adventure. She enjoys rock climbing, snowboarding, backpacking, biking, and sailing.

Amalia Gamboa, CSW

Adolescent Males and Females, Ages 13-17

Utah State University, Master of Social Work, CMSW
Trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Experiential Therapy

Specializes in: Trauma / Substance Use Disorders / Family Systems / Attachment / Lack of Motivation / Risk-Taking Behaviors / Self-Esteem Issues / Depression / Anxiety / Mood Disorders / Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

Amalia is a native Costa Rican who completed her bachelor’s degree in eco-tourism. She then worked at Outward Bound Costa Rica before getting a job as a field guide in a wilderness program. She excelled at her work in the wilderness and became the field director before earning her master’s degree in social work.

Amalia has worked in settings such as juvenile correction and wilderness therapy. She has worked with clients from various backgrounds, particularly teens and young adults who struggle with risk-taking behaviors, defiance, and substance abuse. Amalia uses a mix of different modalities tailored to the needs of both the client and family. These include motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, experiential therapy, and narrative therapy.

She finds that narrative therapy can be particularly beneficial for helping clients analyze and change the stories they tell themselves about the world. In addition, experience has led her to believe that this type of therapy can benefit people who experience mood disorders or learned helplessness during their early adulthood.

Amalia is fluent in English and Spanish and is comfortable working with clients in either language. Amalia has a passion for traveling and experiencing other cultures. She loves the outdoors, specifically mountain biking and rock climbing, and appreciates the power of nature. She finds joy in seeing students overcome their struggles and creating lasting change in their lives.

Carly Sternberg, CSW

Adolescent Males and Females, Ages 13-17

Master of Social Work, CMSW: University of Utah
Bachelor’s degree in global studies and economics: University of Vermont
Trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Family Therapy, and Experiential Therapy

Also Specializes in: Family Systems / Neurodivergence / Depression / Anxiety / Self-Esteem Issues / Attachment / Family Relationships / Family Dynamics / Trauma

Born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago, Carly attended the University of Vermont and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in global studies and economics. After a short stint on the east coast, she found her way to Utah, where she spent summers working as a field guide for Aspiro. Carly went on to earn her Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Utah and believes that the challenging and nurturing atmosphere in the wilderness offers a valuable ground for personal growth.

Carly also brings a wealth of previous experience working with families. She focuses on creating and strengthening healthy boundaries, facilitating closeness, and building cohesion. Carly works effectively as an intermediary between family members and uses this position to establish better lines of communication.

As a former guide, Carly brings a unique authenticity to her approach to wilderness therapy. She knows what it’s like to be out in the wilderness with students and uses this knowledge to build rapport with her clients. As a result, Carly is exceptionally skilled at building relationships with her clients and often gets through to them where others have failed.

Carly loves exploring the diverse landscapes of Utah through mountain biking and backcountry skiing. She also enjoys tending to her vegetable garden and cooking for her family and friends.

Nick Pellitteri

Program Director

After earning a degree in Forestry and Recreation Resource Management from the University of Wisconsin, Nick took his first wilderness therapy job in Utah. Nick started as a field staff, and throughout his 7 years working for that company, he took on roles in staff development, program leadership eventually becoming a field director. In 2014 Nick switched to the nonprofit world where he helped improve access to the outdoors to people from various backgrounds. He continued to grow as an industry leader in experiential, and adventure education before his love of wilderness therapy drew him back to the industry in early 2020.

Nick’s passion for the outdoors began when he was a child growing up in Wisconsin as he spent time outdoors camping, hunting and fishing with his Dad. When Nick is not working, you can find him snowboarding on the slopes, hiking through the forest, or camping with his wife and son.

Kayleen Richter, PHR

CCO

Kayleen Richter, Chief Compliance Officer for Aspiro Group, is an HR professional with over 16 years of experience in the public and private sectors. She is certified through Human Resource Certification Institute as a Professional Human Resource, PHR. Kayleen has been with the Aspiro team since April 2013, managing employee relations, training, recruiting, compensation, performance management, employee engagement, Licensing compliance, workers compensation, benefits, risk and more. She has been a Society for Human Resource Management Member since 2015. Kayleen loves working with people and helping employees have a great experience while employed at Aspiro. Kayleen enjoys running, volleyball, camping, boating, and most of all spending time with and raising 6 beautiful children.

Shailee Davis, LCSW

Family Services Therapist

University of Utah, Masters of Social Work
Utah Valley University, Bachelors of Social Work
Trained in Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Also Specializes in: Family Systems/Self-Esteem Issues/Substance Use/Trauma-Informed Care/Depression/Anxiety

Shailee was born and raised in Utah. During her undergraduate studies at Utah Valley University, she worked in substance abuse treatment and she also worked at a residential treatment center for teenage girls, where she found passion in helping others enhance their lives. Shailee grew to love working with families and helping them understand their family dynamics. She quickly learned that change can happen when love and boundaries work together. Her work experiences led her to the decision to pursue a career as a therapist. During her four years working in residential treatment, she graduated with her bachelor’s degree in Social Work.

Shailee pursued her goal to become a clinician and graduated with a Master’s degree in Social Work at the University of Utah. She is trained in Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She believes in utilizing the therapeutic relationship with her clients to help them explore, understand, and live their own core values in order to enhance their lives. Shailee has a gift for helping the people she is with feel loved and understood, and she therefore has a talent for connecting with and earning the trust of her students. Shailee married her childhood best friend and they enjoy spending time together in the great outdoors. She loves to travel and go on camping and fishing trips.

Adam Balls, MD

Medical Director

Dr. Adam Balls is a board-certified emergency medicine physician who is actively practicing in the Salt Lake City area for Utah Emergency Physicians. He obtained his MD degree from Georgetown University in 2004. In 2007, Dr. Balls completed his residency in Emergency Medicine at Maricopa Medical Center in Phoenix, AZ where he also served as chief resident. After his residency, Adam and his family relocated to San Antonio Texas where he served on active duty for four years as an EM physician at Wilford Hall Medical Center, a Level 1 Trauma Center and EM Residency Program. During his time in the Air Force, he served as a team leader for a Critical Care Aeromedical Transport Team on deployments to Iraq, Germany, and Afghanistan.

Adam currently resides in Salt Lake City with his wife and three children. He serves as Medical Director for Intermountain Medical Center in Murray, Utah, a Level 1 Trauma Center and the largest ED in the state of Utah. He also works as Medical Director for Murray Fire Department. Adam is passionate about delivering excellent patient care in the Emergency Department and enjoys training and teaching. He is excited to support the needs of Pure Life in his Medical Director role. Outside of his clinical work, Adam enjoys the outdoors in Utah, supporting his children in their various sports and school activities, and living life through travel experiences around the world.

Jordan Cox, BSN

Assistant Medical Director

Jordan completed his Bachelor’s in Nursing at Utah Tech University and has served as a Registered Nurse in emergency medicine and long-term care facilities. Jordan works with Aspiro’s Medical Director, Dr. Adam Balls, MD, and the rest of the Aspiro medical team to provide students with comprehensive medical care. Jordan is a particularly strong communicator and finds ways to connect with parents, field staff, therapists, and other medical professionals to provide the highest quality medical care to Aspiro students.

Jordan is originally from Huntington, Utah, a small town about an hour east of the Aspiro basecamp. He is a proud Eagle Scout and is grateful to have had the opportunity to grow up in Utah. In Jordan’s free time, he enjoys getting outdoors by backpacking and mountain biking. However, you can find him in the kitchen when he is not out on an adventure, as he has a passion for nutritional sciences and loves to cook for family and friends.

Luke Eckert

Medical Coordinator

Luke has been working as an instructor and guide in the outdoors since his was 14. Since receiving his undergraduate degree, he has utilized his experience to create safe and therapeutic experiences at Aspiro Adventure. During this time, he pursued opportunities to learn more about medical safety in the wilderness context, resulting in a number of certifications including Wilderness First Responder, Emergency Medical Technician, Advanced Wilderness Life Support, and a BS in Disaster Management and Response. Luke also spent more than 10 years working as an EMT in a rural community in Northern New York State managing complex medical situations with limited resources. His passion for both the physical and mental health of Aspiro students makes him an ideal Medical Manager. In his spare time, Luke enjoys spending time in the mountains with his wife and four legged best friend Colden.

Carl Smoot, PhD

Director of Clinical Assessment

Licensed Psychologist in the state of Utah
Ph.D. Psychology University of Utah
M.A. Philosophy
B.A. Philosophy/B.S. Psychology, Phi Beta Kappa, Magna Cum Laude

Also specializes in: Psychological Evaluation / Supervision / Autism Spectrum / Disorders / Developmental Disorders / Psychodynamic Psychotherapy / Group Therapy

Carl has been working with outdoor and residential therapeutic programs for over 30 years. After completing his degree, Carl supervised three school-based mental health programs in Hawaii. Carl moved back to Salt Lake City because of his love of the outdoors and for the opportunities in Utah to work in wilderness programs, complete psychological evaluations, and to conduct consultations.

Carl has been with Aspiro since 2012 and is currently Aspiro’s Director of Clinical Assessment. In this role, Carl supervises the Aspiro clinical team, reviews complex clinical cases, and consults with Aspiro clinicians and families when unique clinical challenges arise. Given his extensive experience in mental health, Carl often assists with training Aspiro field staff in a variety of clinically relevant topics.

Under Carl’s leadership, the Aspiro clinical team aims to create positive client outcomes by implementing evidence-based clinical practices. Critically, Carl ensures that the Aspiro clinical model is motivating and is built on the principles of positive psychology.

Away from work, Carl enjoys fly fishing, duck hunting, and being outdoors with his wife of over 20 years, his 3 children and his grandchildren.

Whitney Fox

Administrative Assistant

Born and raised in Utah, Whitney joined the Aspiro team in early 2018. Whitney’s study of the arts has allowed her to look at systems with a creative and fresh perspective, making her an integral part of Aspiro’s office management team. She is eager to jump into new projects and broaden her understanding of the inner workings of Aspiro. Whitney’s attention to detail and family focus has enriched the family services department and added an important element of attention and care to everyone she works with. Whitney enjoys spending her free time with her daughter and camping with her friends, family, and dogs.

Kaili Young

Controller

Kaili Young is the Controller at Aspiro. Born and raised in Delta, Utah, Kaili graduated from Utah State University. She is proud to be a part of the brilliant, kind, and fun team at Aspiro and values the opportunities she has to learn from her colleagues. With more than a decade of accounting experience, Kaili brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role at Aspiro.

In her free time, Kaili enjoys spending time in the great outdoors camping, fishing, and hiking with her family and her dogs. She values the opportunities she has to unplug from the daily grind and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Natalie Thacker

HR Manager/Recruiter

Natalie Thacker is Aspiro’s Human Resources Generalist. In this role, she wears many hats and does a great job balancing recruiting, onboarding, compensation, benefits, and ensuring that company policies and procedures are followed. Natalie has worked at Aspiro for over eight years. Prior to coming to Aspiro, Natalie worked as a childcare provider where she incorporated the outdoors as much as possible and encouraged the development of a lifelong connection with the natural world. Natalie has called Utah home for over the past 20 years. Prior to Utah, she lived in the Czech Republic, Virgin Islands, and Colorado. Natalie enjoys working for Aspiro because she feels it is a company with a positive growth mindset that supports individuals reaching their true potential. When Natalie is not working, she enjoys traveling, reading, hiking, and camping all over Utah with her husband and six children.

Ally Jackson

Admissions Counselor

Ally is a Denver, Colorado native and has lived in Utah for nearly 15 years. Ally has been working with families in crisis since 2013, facilitating admissions and outreach roles at residential treatment and wilderness therapy programs. Ally has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Utah Valley University and four years of experience as a Court Appointed Special Advocate for abused and neglected children. Ally is passionate about what she does and has a gift of connecting with families and helping them feel supported while navigating the admissions process. Because of her experience in a treatment program as an adolescent, Ally brings an extraordinary amount of warmth, compassion, and hope to the families she works with. Ally fully believes in and is passionate about Aspiro’s Adventure model and the fantastic team she works with daily. Outside work, Ally holds the title of “Favorite Aunt” to her three nieces, loves to be active, practice yoga, and spend time with family and friends. She also has a sidekick that goes everywhere with her-her Goldendoodle named Sadie.

Kate Crowell

Admissions Coordinator

Kate has worked in the wilderness industry for over twelve years, spending the majority of that time with Aspiro. Kate has gained vast experience in numerous departments including working as a field guide, logistics coordinator, purchaser, accountant, and now as the Family Services Coordinator. The different roles she has played at Aspiro plus her great attention to detail and organization, make her an incredible asset to the Family Services team as she has an in-depth knowledge of the details of each department and of wilderness therapy as a whole. Kate’s experience allows her to easily arrange details for clinicians and families when organizing Family Days, and to answer questions for parents on all of the aspects of Aspiro. Kate enjoys gardening, reading, knitting, and spending time with her husband, two little girls, and three dogs.

Michael Stanley

Creative Content Manager

Michael is a Utah native who grew up among the red rocks near Zion National Park. He is a storyteller at heart. Michael is passionate about sharing the inspiring stories of transformation and reconciliation he is privileged to witness in the lives of Aspiro students and their families. He holds a degree in Media Arts with an emphasis in non-fiction film production. He enjoys adventure and wildlife photography and takes pride in helping Aspiro showcase its beautiful and awe-inspiring areas of operation. He’s also a dad joke aficionado and loves nothing more than to help guides and students find the joy and humor in everyday situations. Among his many adventures, being a dad to his son and daughter is his favorite.

Kip Swem

Field Director

Kip grew up in eastern Washington where he quickly found a love for the outdoors. After going to school at Central Washington University, he traveled to Honduras to volunteer as an English teacher and manage a program on proper nutrition for the local youth. It was in Honduras that Kip learned that service was his passion, thus leading him to wilderness therapy. Kip has been with Aspiro since early 2016. He started out as a field guide where he was able to develop a diverse skill set to help our unique and complicated students. Following that, he transitioned into the role of recruiter where he discovered our staff and helped them develop to a high standard which Aspiro holds. As an associate field director, Kip now manages Aspiro’s field staff and focuses on training them to be as effective as possible. Kip can likely be found visiting student groups in the field, hiking into a backcountry lake, or planning his next adventure.

Trevor Ahlquist

Associate Operations Manager

Trever Ahlquist is Aspiro’s Associate Operations Director. In this role, Trevor oversees Aspiro’s expeditions and weekly staffing needs. Trevor has held many roles within the Aspiro group since he started as a guide in 2006. These include being a lead field guide, the logistics coordinator, and an in-field trainer. In addition to his work at Aspiro Adventure, Trevor also has experience as a shift lead at a residential treatment center and spent a year in Costa Rica working as a guide at another adventure-based wilderness program. Trevor is excited about his new role as Associate Operations Director at Aspiro as he enjoys the company culture and believes in the work that Aspiro does. Trevor’s favorite outdoor activity is backpacking and in his free time, he enjoys going disc golfing and exploring new restaurants.

William Travis

Associate Operations Manager

William Travis is the Associate Operations Manager at Aspiro, a highly skilled and dedicated professional with a passion for recreational therapy and outdoor programs. Born and raised in Mooresville, Indiana, William graduated from Indiana University with a major in Recreational Therapy and a minor in Therapeutic Outdoor Programs.

Having started as a field guide at Aspiro in 2020, William brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role. He has a deep appreciation for the great outdoors and enjoys participating in outdoor activities such as skiing, fly fishing, and backpacking. William’s commitment to providing top-notch service to Aspiro’s students, combined with his passion for recreation and the outdoors, make him a valuable asset to the team.

David Gutierrez

Logistics Manager

David Gutierrez is Aspiro’s Logistics Manager. In this role, David provides oversight to the logistics department, including fleet management, transportation coordination, student gear distribution, and supervises logistics staff. David attended Northern Illinois University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in History. David also served in the United States Army and worked for several years in the logistics field as a Service Coordinator for a medical courier company. David is originally from Chicago, Illinois. He grew up snowboarding and playing football and lacrosse. When David is not working enjoys hiking with his labradoodle Walter, hunting, snowboarding, and watching football.

Grant Nickles

Skills Camp Facilitator

Grant Nickles is Aspiro’s Skills Camp Facilitator. In this role, he facilitates a unique experience where students build self-efficacy while learning the arts of leatherworking, primitive skills, basic metalworking, and archery. Grant is originally from Wyoming, where he grew up camping, hunting, backpacking, and hiking. Grant earned his associate’s degree in outdoor education and recreation leadership from Northwest College and his bachelor’s degree in recreation and outdoor education from Western State Colorado University. After graduation Grant spent ten years leading youth backpacking trips, ski patrolling and even portered loads for a mountain guiding company in Montana.

Grant loves working at Aspiro most of all because of the “Ah-Ha!” moments when students learn a new skill or something new about themselves. When Grant is not working, he enjoys running, bowhunting, mountaineering, backpacking, rock climbing, skiing, primitive skills, and reading.

Tyler Knigga

Transport Supervisor

Tyler grew up in Lawrenceburg, Indiana in the Ohio River Valley. He graduated from Indiana University in Bloomington, where he earned a BA in Psychology and a BA in African American & African Diaspora Studies. In 2017, he moved to Utah and began working as a field guide with Aspiro. He then joined the Transport Team and has been the Transport Supervisor since 2022. He has a great love for animals, and currently has 7 pet rabbits and 4 guinea pigs. In his free time, Tyler enjoys playing disc golf, reading, cooking, and camping.

Colleen Dawson

Basecamp Operations Specialist

Colleen grew up in Massachusetts and earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Southern New Hampshire University. After graduating, Colleen worked as a counselor for a therapeutic school before leaving to hike the Pacific Crest Trail & the Appalachian Trail. Colleen’s passion for mental health and the outdoors led her to Aspiro as a field guide in 2020. When Colleen is not working, she enjoys reading, hiking & traveling.

Kelly DiPietro

Food Room Manager

Kelly grew up in Stamford, Connecticut but moved out West for college and graduate school. She received a dual bachelor’s in Psychology and Ethnic Studies from the University of Colorado and a Master’s in Sport and Performance Psychology from the University of Denver. Before Aspiro Kelly worked in military mental health, treatment of eating disorders, and adolescent mental performance. Kelly was a field guide from 2021-2022 before transitioning into the food room. Now when she isn’t resupplying the students and guides of Aspiro with their weekly supply of food she is rock climbing or exploring new regions of Utah.

Eliza Maas, CSW

Vantage Point Program Coordinator

Eliza first joined the team at Aspiro Adventure in 2020 as a field guide prior to moving into the logistics department. In her current role as Vantage Point Program Coordinator, Eliza develops and facilitates a weekly curriculum for the Vantage Point students, focusing on social-emotional themes and goals. Eliza holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in social work from The University of Vermont. Growing up on a farm in rural Vermont, the outdoors have always been a big part of her identity. Eliza states, “In my professional life, I have always been passionate about child and adolescent mental health, so wilderness therapy was a very natural pairing of my strengths and interests.” Outside of work, Eliza can often be found exploring the mountains and deserts of Utah, skiing, biking, and running.

Robert Baldassari

Risk & Compliance Manager

Robert Baldassari is one of two In-Field Trainers at Aspiro. It is his job to support Field Guides by providing on-the-job evaluations and coaching. Robert works with our Field Guides to grow their toolbox of guiding techniques. In this role, Robert has the pleasure of visiting several student groups each week and is able to get to know most of the students at Aspiro. Robert grew up in California and moved to Utah in 2006 to live near the mountains. His background is in ski instructing, where he has over 10 years of experience and holds several certifications, including his PSIA level 2, AASI Level 1, and Children Specialist 1. During his free time, Robert enjoys skiing, hiking, and backpacking. He has also been known to rock climb and ice climb. Some of his more memorable expeditions include climbing Mt Gannett, Mt. Shasta, Mt. Rainier, and Mt. Hood.

Reuben Hoyos

In-Field Trainer

Reuben is an In-Field Trainer at Aspiro. It is his job to support field guides by providing on-the-job evaluations and coaching. Reuben works with our field guides to grow their toolbox of guiding techniques. In this role, Reuben has the pleasure of visiting several student groups each week and is able to get to know most of the students at Aspiro. Reuben attended Middle Tennessee State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in advertising, public relations, and social psychology. After graduating, he worked as the director of marketing for an insurance company. When he decided that the corporate world wasn’t for him, Reuben decided to search for more meaningful work. He chose to work for Aspiro because he agrees with the company’s philosophies and loves the supportive community. When Reuben is not working, you can find him rock climbing.

Lewis

Support Dog

Lewis Edward Kaczmarek is the very best stick fetcher at Aspiro. He’s very familiar with Aspiro as he started to work here when he was only eight weeks old. He is now six, and is pretty sure he knows the mountain better than any human. He loves going to work with his mom, Jamie Kaczmarek. Lewis’ strengths include fetching, handshakes, not eating people’s food, and kindness. Some of his weaknesses are persistence (he tends to be preoccupied with fetch), and sometimes he cuddles up on sleeping bags without asking (He’s working on this). Lewis’ mom and the other students say he is good at helping people to stay calm. He tries to engage people in play whenever he can. He truly believes in letting the inner child out and allowing himself to surrender to the silliness.

Mabel

Mabel Vanwolfheusen is a golden retriever that accompanies Jordan each week in the field as he visits with members of the Uinta group. Mabel enjoys finding various objects around camp and strategically bringing them to group members for an enticing game of fetch. She lives up to her breed as a retriever with a one-tracked mind to play. Mabel also offers an incredibly emotionally attuned presence to whomever she is around and is always ready for hugs.

Walter

Support Dog

Meet Walter, David G’s rambunctious two-year-old labradoodle. Walter has a firm paw shake and uses his infectious energy to brighten up everyone’s day at Basecamp. This clever pup has been known to use his honey-dipped human eyes to hypnotize all into giving him treats and back scratches. Walter loves the snow and can be seen frolicking about the snow-capped mountainsides of Utah.

Doolee

Support Dog

Doolee is a mischievous and lovable dog who solemnly swears he’s up to no good. Despite his best efforts to get into trouble, his cute and charming personality always seems to get him out of it. When he’s not stealing sandwiches from the table or causing mischief, Doolee loves nothing more than playing with the students at Aspiro. He is a beloved member of the Aspiro community and is especially close to Kip Swem, the Field Director who claims him as his own. Despite his naughty habits, Doolee is a well-loved and valued member of the Aspiro family.

Colden

Support Dog

Colden Eckert is our resident medical team pup. He makes sure that every student feels calm and comfortable for their weekly medical check-in by resting his head on students’ laps and politely asking for pets. Colden loves to run between the campsites and say hello to each group while hunting for hidden tennis balls. He always keeps an eye out for a muddy puddle or a stream and never misses an opportunity to jump in! Colden is a regular at basecamp and never fails to bring a smile to our faces.

Sadie

Support Dog

Sadie is a Goldendoodle and belongs to one of our admissions counselors, Ally Jackson. Sadie loves coming to the office and greeting new students and parents. She frequently makes appearances over zoom calls and meetings. Sadie would love to be a therapist herself, she is a master at knowing who needs support and loves to lick tears away. She’ll be best friends with anyone who gives her belly rubs and plays fetch with her. Sadie brings joy, laughter, and endless amounts of cuddles to everyone around her!

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