SAM Magazine—Natick, Mass., Aug. 4, 2026—The 2026 Rise Up Challenge is underway, and voting is officially open. Now in its sixth year, the video contest shines a spotlight on talented young lift mechanics—rising stars who are essential to the future of mountain operations.

This year, six resorts each nominated a standout team member to be featured in a short video showcasing their skills, passion, and dedication to the trade:

Castle Mountain, Alberta — Kyle Lussier

Loveland Ski Area, Colo. — Zoe Corigliano

Massanutten Resort, Va. — Joseph Boothe

Mount Snow, Vt. — Josh Storino

Sipapu Ski & Summer Resort, N.M. — Silas Katz

Spirit Mountain, Minn. — Nick Anderson

The resort whose video receives the most votes by midnight on Aug. 16, 2026, will earn a $3,500 educational grant, courtesy of Leitner-Poma of America (LPOA). This grant supports ongoing training for lift maintenance professionals. In addition, LPOA will award a $1,500 grant to the runner-up and $500 each to the other participating teams.

“The Rise Up Challenge is a cornerstone of Leitner-Poma of America’s commitment to the ski industry and to the professional men and women who work tirelessly to maintain and repair lifts,” said LPOA president and CEO Daren Cole. “They work long hours, often in the harshest of conditions, to keep the skiing public safe and keep the lifts spinning. Their work often goes unseen by resort guests, but inside of the industry we all know the key role they play.”

"One of the best parts of the Rise Up Challenge is introducing our readers to the talented people building careers in lift maintenance," said SAM publisher Olivia Rowan. "These six nominees represent the skill, dedication, and craftsmanship that keep our industry's lift systems operating safely every day. We love having the opportunity to tell their stories and give readers a closer look at the people and careers behind the lifts."

To watch the Rise Up Challenge videos and cast your vote, visit www.saminfo.com/riseup.  

Voting is open through midnight on Aug. 16, 2026. Individuals may vote once per day.