Sam grew up and attended college on Oahu where he studied Geology and Geophysics at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Shortly after graduating, Sam moved to Utah where he learned to ski and joined Snowbird Ski Patrol in Little Cottonwood Canyon. Spending time in that canyon with some of the best ski patrollers in the world has provided incredible insight into the avalanche and climbing profession. Sam has taken his AIARE PRO 1 and an Advanced Winter Weather Forecasting course. Between winter seasons, Sam has worked with the Forest Service as a full-time climbing ranger on Mt. Hood in Oregon. Sam has been an EMT for 5 years, having worked for ambulance services, volunteer SAR organizations, Ski Patrol, and federal wildland fire crews. As of January 2023, Sam is now a full time Mt. Shasta Avalanche Center Forecaster and Climbing Ranger. When not working, he spends his time rock climbing or searching for waves.
