Raised in Ottawa, Ontario, Sawyer has been chasing adventure since he first strapped on skis at three years old. Now a student in TRU’s Adventure Studies program, he’s combining his passion for skiing, climbing and the outdoors with professional training to turn his love for mountains into a career guiding others safely through some of the most breathtaking—and unpredictable—environments on earth.
Tell us a little about yourself — where you’re from, what you’re passionate about, or anything else you’d like to share.
My name is Sawyer, I’m from Ottawa, Ontario. I am passionate about backcountry skiing and rock climbing. I have been skiing since I was 3. I grew up doing downhill ski racing in Quebec for 8 years and then became a downhill ski coach for 2 years.
Before coming to the program, I travelled to Peru with one of my friends and we spent two weeks exploring Cusco and Lima. We visited Rainbow Mountain and completed the Salkantay trek which is a multi-day trek to Machu Picchu.
I love meeting new people, entertaining them, and helping them have fun!
What drew you to this program, and what are you most looking forward to this year?
I was looking at a lot of different outdoor programs, and the Adventure Guide program at TRU was one of the few that offered skiing courses, so I jumped on it.
This year I am looking forward to doing lot of ski touring and getting more into ice climbing.
What do you hope to do with your training after completing the program?
After the program I want to complete my CSGA Level 1 to be a tail guide. I also want to complete my apprentice rock and alpine to become a full mountain guide with the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides. The mountains are an unpredictable yet beautiful environment that continues to draw me back.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about applying to Adventure Studies?
For students who are thinking about applying, I’d say have an open mind with your field course selection. Don’t shield yourself from courses you aren’t as interested in. Some students who enter the program for the mountain stream end up becoming kayak and raft guides.
You’ll meet lots of people in the program, have fun, and save your money for gear!
