Ruthie joined Open Sky as a field guide in June 2019. Prior to this role, she was a lead instructor for The Mountain Institute, an Assistant Instructor for Voyageur Outward Bound School, and a crew leader for Northwest Youth Corps.

Ruthie was drawn to work at Open Sky by its focus on the relational model and the “4 rooms” model of holistic health (physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual). She was also drawn in by the mentorship structure for guides. In her role, she values the parallel learning she is experiencing alongside students. She values ceremony and rites of passage, as well as the field guide community.

Within a guide team, her strengths are advocating for herself, asking questions, and being open to learning. She is creative and curious, infusing play and games into her guiding. She is supportive of her guide team and brings laughter.

During her time off, she spends time doing yoga, climbing, making art, gardening, spending time with other guides, and walking in the woods.