As the son of a carpenter and author/illustrator, it is in Peter’s blood to enjoy working with his hands. Born and raised on the Front Range of Colorado, Peter saw no reason to leave, but only upgraded his quality of life by moving to the Western Slope. After years of education, Peter was drawn to anthropology, which he feels fits almost seamlessly with the work confronted in the field. The demographic at Open Sky is broad, so the ability to work with students and co-workers from all walks of life is essential. The diversity is what creates an environment of endless curiosity and limitless new understanding for the dynamics of healthy development.

After completing 200 days in the field as a guide, Peter joined the Operations team at Open Sky. This small department has a strong sense of family and brotherhood that aligns with Peter’s values. There is a perpetual thrill in the connection of who we are and how we relate, our community, relationships, and nature of the work that we do in supporting the guides and field.

Peter was initially drawn to Open Sky after a very difficult life event. His older brother, Tyler, passed away in his late twenties. That was one of the most difficult and defining moments in Peter’s life; he had never experienced such pain. Tyler’s death catapulted Peter toward realizing who he was independent of Tyler and how he is also a part of him. Open Sky offered a professional platform to intentionally heal and grieve this loss alongside other people who were grieving and learning how to heal.

There is healing power in nature, and Peter knows from both personal and professional experience that it offers an honest space.