A good lift mechanic is hard to find. Leitner-Poma of America wants to help the industry rise up to the challenge of supporting the next generation of lift mechanics, with the fourth annual Rise Up Challenge.
Six lift maintenance teams were chosen to participate in the 2021 Rise Up Challenge: Craigleith Ski Club, Ont.; Hunter Mountain, N.Y.; Jack Frost, Pa.; Purgatory, Colo.; Snowbasin, Utah; and Taos, N.M. The six chosen resorts created videos showcasing the rising stars on their lift maintenance crews, alongside mentors and teammates.
Congratulation to this year’s Rise Up Challenge winner, Leah Parkes from Craigleith. Watch his and the other contestant’s videos below:
Craigleith Ski Club, Ont. — Leah Parkes
“Leah is constantly proving that she can handle herself in a typically male dominated field. Leah is the first female Class A mechanic in Ontario and is always looking for training opportunities to better her skills.”
Hunter Mountain, N.Y. — Brady Pickett
“Brady may only be 19 years old, but he has the insight of three generations of Picketts, all of which worked at Hunter. Brady has the experience of working with seasoned mechanics and inspires the current young, enthusiastic team.”
Jack Frost, Pa. — Kelly Wasco
“In 2020, Kelly was offered a FTYR position as lift mechanic and she has been pedal to the metal ever since. An avid climber, carrier maintenance specialist, line work enthusiast, and sheave train rebuilding machine. There is no job too big or too small for Kelly!”
Purgatory, Colo. — Zach Martinez
“Zach started as a Lift Attendant and quickly rose through the ranks, currently working as a Lift Mechanic II. He is an integral part of the new generation of Lift Mechanics and a strong mentor to the younger mechanics and lift operators. He teaches them the skills they need to know, and his dedication to the mountain and passion for the job is contagious.”
Snowbasin, Utah — Robby Fullmer
“Robby has always been a guy who likes to tear things apart, learn the interworkings, get his hands dirty, and solve problems. He has been a quick learner and just three years into his lift mechanic journey he has become a crew lead. He eagerly looks for ways to better the department and the procedures with his forward thinking.”
Taos Ski Valley, N.M. — Eric Barela
“Eric is the picture of an up-and-coming lift mechanic in the industry. He not only displays a quick aptitude for the mechanics of ski lifts, but also has the day-in, day-out work ethic to lead by example.”