Andy’s first exposure to the mountains came in the Eastern Sierra of California and the coastal ranges of Southeast Alaska. He initially dipped his toe into what Alaska has to offer in the town of Gustavus, near Glacier Bay National Park. He took his first avalanche course shortly after college with the Colorado Mountain School and has been hooked ever since.
Before joining AAS, Andy taught for several AIARE providers and NOLS in California, Idaho, and Wyoming. Drawn to Palmer by NOLS Alaska's mountaineering program, he’s worked on mountaineering courses in the Northern Chugach since 2016. What began as volunteer observations for HPAC has evolved into his current role as an Assistant Forecaster.
Andy lives in Palmer with his partner Annie and their new dog, Bogi. When he’s not talking about snow, you’ll likely find him playing bluegrass mandolin.