Name: Teresa Slate

Age: 37

Hometown: Sioux City, IA

Position at RMOC: Operations manager

Certifications: 11 years working in customer service and 10 years as an elementary teacher.

When did you start guiding? I started working in the office/shuttles/ cleaning crew/lunch coordinator about 12 years ago.

When did you start at RMOC? 2012

What is your most rewarding experience while guiding? I get the unique experience of seeing people before and after their adventures. It’s truly a transformation. They come back full of pride, spirit, joy, and a renewed connection with the natural world. It’s therapeutic for many and I love that we get to provide these experiences for people. I love to hear their heroic tales and epic fails.

Your most epic day? Hammer Time 2015 you can see it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EWaYDdTxM70
For someone with a low tolerance for things that are “epic” this was quite a surprise but in the end, super fun. I had the Ark Valley’s best safety boaters ready to help.

Education/Background: University of Northern Colorado graduate in Elementary Education and Environmental Science

What do you do in the off-season? I keep busy with my 2 daughters. As a family we enjoy snowboarding and playing in the snow as much as possible. Our favorite winter spot is to play at Monarch and Old Monarch Pass. I’m also busy at RMOC prepping for next season, working with group accounts, staffing, and finding ways to make RMOC better and better with each season.

Favorite beer: Whiskey

Favorite day off activity: Playing with my kids, usually by the river or on the river.

Favorite whitewater run: Big Bend to Salida in an inflatable kayak!

Favorite thing after the river: A warm hoodie, Whiskey, and french fries.