THE WELDERS
Bright minds, disciplined personalities, and bodies that have seen a fair share of bruising.
It’s not exactly a recipe anyone wrote, but it does describe the gang that has rallied around the vision and mission that has become WELD. These folks see a big wide world that everyone should experience in thrilling fashion, and they know how to tell stories that get you to want to come along.
George Rogers
Managing Partner
Chief Creative Officer
304.465.9353 x 2
Five questions
I’ve always felt the best when I can feel the wind and see the sky. I suspect most folks do. Everyday, I’m excited and thankful that I get work with great companies that are passionate about helping others explore wild places and the sense of adventure that’s in us all.
My perfect day
Seeing a new place and finding a great line.
My favorite recent work project
In just over a week, our video crew acquired original footage from 10 locations in 4 states and produced a clip that captures the emotion of the Yakima brand. Cheers to everyone involved!
5 Favs in the Quiver
La Sportiva Miura (for life), Jones All Mountain Twin, Canon 5D Mark II, Carbon Flash 1, Jackson Villan, iphone 4
Top 5 Web Sites
thrashermagazine.com - rockandice.com - thenextweb.com - zinio.com - youtube.com
Passion Apart from Work and Play
Mariah, Emmet, Ruby, Hanz, Frans and Jasper boy.
Brandon Holmes
Managing Partner
Business Development
304.663.1196
Five questions
After attending the University of Colorado Boulder and UNC Chapel Hill, Brandon started his first business: Adventure Medicine International. That experience was all it took to build the "adventure" side of the equation for Brando. The marketing side, the creative tell-a-story side, actually started with some kettle corn, a ski town, and a captive audience (long story). There’s been a passionate romance ever since. He co-founded WELD to serve companies that cultivate the active, outdoor lifestyle.
My perfect day
Meditation session, yoga, eggs over-easy, and a powder day with a side of productive work.
My favorite recent work project
Doing production work with Keith and George on the Middle Fork of the Salmon for O.A.R.S. and Outside TV.
5 Favs in the Quiver
Jackson Super Star, Line 130’s, French press, lil' black MacBook and Alta/Snowbird pass.
Top 5 Web Sites
google.com/apps - basecamphq.com - facebook.com - twitter.com - promotive.com - If I'm online, I'm working (sorry, teletips.com)
Passion Apart from Work and Play
I routinely seek, find and eat up happiness. I am passionate about finding balance and comfort in my daily routine.
Reid Williams
Chief Content Officer
304.465.9353 x 4
Five questions
As part of the executive committee, Reid has helped grow and define WELD operations since 2008. Previously, he toyed with lives as a ski town newspaper journalist, a chemistry professor and, most recently, a globe-trotting whitewater rafting guide.
My perfect day
I wake before sunrise, hearing birds and howler monkeys. The espresso and milk are in perfect, tasty proportion and just the right temperature. I head out with no plan, except to know that I will measure the day in miles traveled, pictures taken and strangers made friends. My best days are always surprises, but always outdoors. And if they squeeze in a round of golf with dad, well, then that is perfect.
My favorite recent work project
An animated graphic novel for a Boy Scouts of America special unit recruitment.
5 Favs in the Quiver
Bialetti espresso maker, 6-string acoustic, Rocky Mountain cross bike, Hyside Mini Me, iPhone 4
Top 5 Web Sites
npr.org - insidefacebook.com - googleblog.blogspot.com - flowingdata.com - youtube.com
Passion Apart from Work and Play
I'm an active supporter of local and sustainable food culture.
Haynes Mansfield
Creative Director
304.465.9353 x 5
Five questions
Ironically, after earning a BFA in Studio Art with a concentration in painting, it seemed more stable to pursue a career in outdoor recreation than as an artist. I’m glad I did. After five years of working as a climbing guide, kayak instructor and video boater, it was time to try out a climate-controlled life. I found myself on the doorstep of the four-man company that would become WELD to work as a graphic designer. It’s funny how life turns full circle.
My perfect day
Be it on an evening solo whitewater run, running it out on the third pitch, or a quiet day from dusk till dawn in my tree stand bow hunting, I crave the moments of quiet and solitude in nature. Add boiled peanuts and a cold dark beer to the day? That would be alright.
My favorite recent work project
I had fun designing a series of promotional items for the The Summit Bechtel Family National Scout Reserve. The kids seemed to really dig them.
5 Favs in the Quiver
pink Lowe tricam, Canon EOS10D (oldie but goodie), Dagger Ocoee whitewater canoe, Hoyt compound bow (that’s right, I have a bow in my quiver ), grit and grits.
Top 5 Web Sites
Yes, I'm on the facebook. - makeprojects.com - tinboats.net - gardenweb.com - blog.2modern.com - design.org
Passion Apart from Work and Play
My desire to create and design overflows into two areas — woodworking and landscaping. I’m as proud of a tight mortise and tenon as I am fascinated by seasonal change in the garden.
Jenny hails from sunny Colorado and has lived in WA, AK, Thailand and, most recently, India. She comes from a background rooted in social service and all things outside/fun. She's a natural as Account Director: Virgo-ean attention to detail, cheery soft skills and a butterfly-like desire to touch everything.
My perfect day
It begins with maximum family cuddle time, followed by hot coffee and a yummy breakfast. Then to the woods. (skis or hiking boots? Yes.) I have to get some garden/farm time, even in winter. Finish with a spicy, home cooked meal before bed.
My favorite recent work project
I love that as Account Director, I get to listen in on all projects. The coolest, in my opinion, is the animated comic we’re producing. So creative and fun — it gives me the giggles!
5 Favs in the Quiver
My Fuji steel-frame road bike; my dog/friend/soulmate Ursa; any snowboard will do; good, dark coffee; a great book or a recent copy of Orion or The Sun.
Top 5 Web Sites
goingslowly.com - theimprovisedlife.com - ted.com - postsecret.com - lifehacker.com
Passion Apart from Work and Play
I have an affinity for solitude and basking in the wonders of the natural world, being innately drawn to places where life is simple and slowly moves
Ben Curnett
Director of Community & Senior Writer
303.550.5567
Five questions
After 15 years in the whitewater industry, I realized my favorite part of the week was writing the company newsletter. And because I happened to have a writing degree to officially fall back on, a career in web writing was born. I enjoy long walks on the beach and thunderstorms.
My perfect day
Snowboarding bottomless powder. No, wait, surfing glassy waves. No, wait, sledding with the kiddos. No, wait, ...
My favorite recent work project
One of our whitewater clients has really focused on changing their voice as we're building their new site. When other people ask me to put words in their mouths, it makes me happy.
5 Favs in the Quiver
tele skis, playboat, mountain bike, MacBook, library card
Top 5 Web Sites
boingboing.net/ - alistapart.com - adventure.nationalgeographic.com - boardistan.com - videogum.com/
Passion Apart from Work and Play
Hot yoga. Ha! Kidding! I'm going with craft beer. Final answer.
From broadcast news reporter to advertising account executive, I've enjoyed a fun and diverse career in both media and marketing. My passion for building brands is rivaled only by my love for adventure. In 2007, I was bitten by the travel bug and headed overseas. I spent the next three years working in international marketing and traipsing about Southeast Asia. Now back in Park City, I consider myself pretty lucky to work for a company that uses its marketing savvy to promote action-oriented brands.
My perfect day
I'd start by fueling up with a strong cuppa joe and a greasy diner-style, 'kitchen sink' omelette. Then I'd hit a previously unexplored trail. It could be a cardio challenge in the Uintas, hiking to a cicada serenade in an Indonesian jungle, biking through rice fields or a slow meander through a northern Michigan forest. Any of those would work, as long as I'm outside alone with my husband with no timeline and no cell phones.
My favorite recent work project
Creating a video for Live PC Give PC, a 24-hr drive to raise money for nonprofits in Park City, UT.
5 Favs in the Quiver
travel yoga mat, thermos of coffee, camera, my dog (Mocha), ipod
Top 5 Web Sites
vimeo.com - sebmontaz.com - twitter.com - frolic-blog.com/ - dirtbagdiaries.com/
Passion Apart from Work and Play
I see my life as a collection of moments that I hope ultimately culminate into one incredible story. I love hearing tales from travelers and adrenaline junkies; they inspire me to get out there and create my own. I'm passionate about filling my days with everything from an exhilarating sky dive to the ultimate savasana.
After having spent many years living out of a backpack in the southwestern desert, I have reignited my love affair with art, design, and the creative process. I love being able to work for a company that values time away from the office as much as time in the office.
My perfect day
Starts with coffee, at some point finds me feeling grateful, and ends with a mess of friends enjoying a great meal together.
My favorite recent work project
This website. Right here. Obsessing over perfect pixels and toiling over small user interface details.
5 Favs in the Quiver
La Sportiva Testarossa’s, bucket o’ chalk, something made with ultra-light down, 27” iMac, Yeti 575.
Top 5 Web Sites
dribbble.com/ - twitter.com - thisamericanlife.org - thinkvitamin.com - typographyserved.com
Passion Apart from Work and Play
I love to cook. I almost went to culinary school, but realized it would be weirder to be a cook with web design as a hobby than being a web designer with food as a hobby.
For as long as I can remember I have always loved the river. It started out with a fascination for surfing, kayaking and windsurfing. Today I am all about sailing and you'll find me on the river in my sloop every chance I get. As a member of the WELD team I get the opportunity to develop websites for clients that understand the thrill of extreme sports.
My perfect day
Heading out to the sea on a windy day to experience the thrill of the open water, while knowing that my wife will be awaiting me with a nice dinner.
My favorite recent work project
I really enjoyed being able to help out with the development of the weldtheweb.com website. It is always exciting to be surrounded by the talented and fun people of the WELD team, but working on the WELD site was an extra blast.
5 Favs in the Quiver
Helly Hansen Thermal t-shirt, MacBook Pro, Sperry Top Slider Nautical Shoes, Canon G11, Wilson Flash Tennis Racket
Top 5 Web Sites
windguru.com - bloosee.com - easytide.com - techcrunch.com - smashingmagazine.com
Passion Apart from Work and Play
I am passionate about food and drink. Preparing a nice dinner with a bottle of wine together with my wife gives me a lot of satisfaction.
Jonathan Danz
Content Producer, Account Manager
304.465.9353
Five questions
Somewhere between thinking I'd be a magazine journalist and managing environmental projects, I found West Virginia and all the good stuff that comes with that. I prefer my outdoor sports laid back and fun and enjoy sharing the experience with my family.
My perfect day
Up after the sun. Coffee in my mug and an hour or two to work on my novel. A trip to the New River Gorge or Babcock State Park to hike and picnic with my family. Cap off the day with some reading or a little music after my daughter's in bed.
My favorite recent work project
Working with Team WELD and the outdoor professionals at ACE Adventure Resort to launch a re-designed web site.
5 Favs in the Quiver
My lovely wife and daughter (can I put them in a quiver?), iPod loaded with music and fiction podcasts, guitar, a good book and a mug of strong coffee.
Top 5 Web Sites
whatever.com - bronxbanterblog.com - chinamieville.net - jonathandanz.com - twitter.com
Passion Apart from Work and Play
Writing speculative fiction. It's a wild ride spending so much time in your head, but there are no limits to the things you can learn about yourself.
Somehow, after growing up and earning a degree in the Northeast, I ended up in San Francisco. Following a three-year corporate graphic design stint and a four-day drive, I found myself in West Virginia as a canopy tour guide. Now at WELD, I'm getting back into marketing graphics and still spending time among the trees...color me a happy girl.
My perfect day
If there was a way to combine a hike filled with the redwoods of the Pacific, the rocky coast of Maine and the cliffs of the New River Gorge on a sunny summer solstice day, topped off with a sunset road ride with my man, I'd be stoked.
My favorite recent work project
I loved working on the Patrol Z posters, trying to fit the pieces together in English and Spanish, and the realization of our vast geographic reach with each SBR campaign.
5 Favs in the Quiver
Road bike, Merrell Vibram trail shoes, point-and-shoot Canon camera, Petzl track and tandem trolley set, homemade lip balm
Top 5 Web Sites
goodmagazine.com - thebolditalic.com - sparkjam.net - grooveshark.com - steepandcheap.com
Passion Apart from Work and Play
I've started cooking my dog's food from scratch. Nothing beats the feeling of preparing fresh, organic meals with local ingredients for those I love...Frisco included!
My passion for the outdoors has taken me all over. In my wandering days, I worked as a snowboard instructor, terrain park groomer, and a video kayaker. It was that last position, and my amazing good fortune, that launched me to my place here as a WELDer.
My perfect day
So much to choose from. Dare I say powder day riding the trees? Maybe a freshly cut superpipe. If the river's big, we'll surf, but I'm just as happy creeking.
My favorite recent work project
Has to be the Adventures In Service projects we've done for the Boy Scouts of America. I live for seeing people have as much fun as I do.
5 Favs in the Quiver
Head Team 155 Snowboard, New Wave Sleek or Eskimo Salto, Diamondback Dual Reactor, Mad Rock Hookers, my disc golf bag!
Top 5 Web Sites
SearchTempest.com/ - SteepandCheap.com - broadbandsports.com - Facebook.com - thedesignblog.org
Passion Apart from Work and Play
Aside from my girl and my pup? Well, I got a new truck not long ago. I'm pretty passionate about that truck.
Parker was born and raised in the pristine mountains surrounding Salt Lake City, UT, and has spent the last ten years building a career in the action and adventure sports industries as a photographer and videographer. An avid snowboarder and mountaineer, most recently he has been found in the wilderness areas climbing all the tallest peaks in the Wasatch Mountains. In summer-time months, Utah's unique canyoneering landscape and ultra-classic limestone slabs are a frequent haunt of this new media aficionado.
My perfect day
They usually start around three in the morning, and terminate after about 4-6000 vertical feet of climbing and snowboarding in hero conditions. There's nothing quite like gaining a ridgeline before sunrise, and having all your best friends enjoy the masterful execution of God's paintbrush completely overpowering all your senses.
My favorite recent work project
I was the Director of Photography for an archaeological documentary near Jerusalem, Israel.
5 Favs in the Quiver
Burton Freebird 158 Splitboard, Canon 5DMKII, BD Raven Pro Ice Axe, BlD Aspect 4-season harness, FiveTen Galileo.
Top 5 Web Sites
failblog.org - crossroadstudios.com - vimeo.com/ - dancarlin.com - podcasttuneup.com
Passion Apart from Work and Play
I'm very passionate about my faith. The tenets of the Gospel of Jesus Christ play a huge role in my daily.
At 19 I left the humid flats of Florida on a solo journey to the mountains of Utah. My first snowfall was an event that shook my entire reality; from that moment on, I was living, eating, and sleeping skiing. To survive the off-season, rock climbing, whitewater kayaking, interspersed with life-long loves of baking, travel, photojournalism and organic gardening.
My perfect day
Unzipping my tent door to a frosty autumn morning. Enjoy some leisurely Appalachian climbs before taking off with a heli-crew in the Chugach winter-wonderland of Alaska. Spend lunch photographing a landscape of ethereal blue glacial ice jutting up out of ragged peaks. Then gear up for some ice routes before cooking a table full of food for friends and family.
My favorite recent work project
The Most Epic Trip. My co-founder and I took six months to drive 16,000 miles, exploring North America’s rock climbing while benefiting a nonprofit. Challenges: daily blogging and living six months in a tent. Reward: a deepened appreciation of the world God created.
5 Favs in the Quiver
Line Pandora skis, Columbia Omni-heat puffy, a full tank of gas, camera, nephew
Top 5 Web Sites
ginabegin.com ;) - vimeo.com - kickstarter.com - marriedtothesea.com - smashingmagazine.com
Passion Apart from Work and Play
I can’t decide. I geek out about design, gear, travel and photography, dream about building my own cabin, and love listening to folk lore, folk music and old folks. I’m deeply passionate about most of life. Except boiled squash and cockroaches.
Yearly rafting trips in West Virginia as a child led me to start kayaking as a teenager. Since then I’ve spent the better part of the last decade kayaking by myself or with good friends throughout the States and South America, all the while calling West Virginia home.
My perfect day
That’s too hard to pin down. It could easily be a solo excursion, a gathering of friends, or meeting completely new people, each has its own value.
My favorite recent work project
Gauley River, A Love Story.
5 Favs in the Quiver
.30-06 Rifle, creekboat, thermos of tea, good book, Canon 5D
Top 5 Web Sites
usgs.gov - philipbloom.net - afws.net - vimeo.com - pandora.com
Passion Apart from Work and Play
My dog Greyson, cooking, and the Wu Tang Clan.
I knew from an early age that I wanted to be an artist. I found out when I was 26 that I really wanted to be a rock climber too. So, now I incorporate both into my life as often as possible. Anytime I can merge the 2, I’m even more excited.
My perfect day
Sleep in. Eat local bacon & cheesy grits. Climb with my friends 'til dark. Eat homemade lasagna and drink cheap spanish wine. Curl up with Calico Kitty and my man, Erik. Think about doing it again the next day.
My favorite recent work project
My fav recent work project is designing eye-catching, creative and time sensitive banners for the new SBR blog to generate interest and enthusiasm.
5 Favs in the Quiver
calico kitty, climbing rope, specialized epic marathon, iphone, bacon
Top 5 Web Sites
weatherchannel.com - freekibble.com/ - amga.com - facebook.com - artcytype.com
Passion Apart from Work and Play
Being in the woods, listening to the wind blow and critters rustle in the leaves.
Evan is a journalism student at West Virginia University that wishes all park benches came with built-in wi-fi. Starting at WELD as a summer intern, "Eagle Scout" Evan now combines his love of the outdoors with his professional aspiration. His goal: to do a little bit of everything in the world of digital media.
My perfect day
Crawling out of my tent in the Dolly Sods Wilderness, grabbing a cup of tea, and heading towards Rocky Point Trail to soak up the sun and scenery.
My favorite recent work project
Filming for ACE Adventure Resort’s Fourth of July Blob Contest (on top of the blob, of course).
5 Favs in the Quiver
My road bike, trail runners, a pair of skis, Macbook Pro, and a lightweight camera.
Top 5 Web Sites
stumbleupon.com - vimeo.com - 10000words.net - innovativeinteractivity.com - informationisbeautiful.net
Passion Apart from Work and Play
Armchair travel. I'll read anything written by Bill Bryson.
I’m studying advertising and marketing at Syracuse University in New York and spend most of my free time volunteering with Alpha Phi Omega, Imagine Syracuse, or the American Cancer Society. I love snowboarding, wakeboarding and anything that’ll give me an adrenaline rush.
My perfect day
Wake up early to fish off the dock while eating a bowl of cinnamon toast crunch. Hit the water while it’s still glassy. Relax with a book before hitting the trails overlooking the lake. Finish with a BBQ, s’mores over the fire and some stargazing.
My favorite recent work project
Creating hype and awareness for the 2011 Relay for Life and the terrible disease, cancer, at Syracuse University. I led a “Why I Relay” campaign across campus which involved taking video and pictures and then uploading them to our Facebook fan page. This encouraged people to tell others why they participate and increased participation and dollars raised.
5 Favs in the Quiver
My K2 Va Va Voom Snowboard, Macbook, Merrell hiking shoes, Sigg water bottle, and a smartphone.
Top 5 Web Sites
twitter.com - mashable.com - youtube.com - post-secret.com - moosejaw.com
Passion Apart from Work and Play
Volunteering. Especially with Imagine Syracuse.