Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Blake O'Donnell

Breckenridge,CO

Summary

Outdoor Professional specializing in Ski Instruction and Raft Guiding. Delivered exceptional guest experiences and fostered skill development through effective training and mentoring of instructors. Focused on maintaining safety standards while creating engaging programs that enhance outdoor recreation.

Overview

18
18
years of professional experience

Work History

River Raft Guide

Rancho Del Rio
Bond, Colorado
04.2023 - 09.2023

● Overnight whitewater raft trips partnering with the YMCA’s child programs.

Implemented safety measures and facilitated engaging activities to enhance safety and enjoyment during whitewater rafting and camping trips.

Organized camp gear, food, meals, and safety tools for overnight trips to ensure readiness and smooth operations.

Raft Guide

Royal Gorge Rafting,
Cañon City, Colorado
03.2019 - 09.2023
  • Guided Royal Gorge Rafting guests through Class III-V whitewater routes.
  • Conducted safety briefings and paddle instructions to ensure guest preparedness before river departures.
  • Inspected rafts, paddles, helmets, and life jackets for trip readiness.
  • Administered first aid assistance during water activities to enhance guest safety and comfort.
  • Coordinated loading, unloading, and rigging of equipment for trips to streamline operations and ensure readiness.

Mountain Bike Coach / Instructor

Breckenridge Recreational Center
Breckenridge, Colorado
03.2025 - 08.2025
  • Instructed athletes on riding techniques, enhancing skills in cornering, braking, shifting gears, and jumping.
  • Demonstrated braking, cornering, and climbing techniques to improve rider safety and performance.
  • Instructed riders on Breckenridge Recreational Center trail safety and mountain bike basics.
  • Communicated ride expectations, trail rules, and class routines to participants.
  • Updated parents on children's progress to foster engagement and support.

Shuttle Driver

The Lodge at Breckenridge
Breckenridge, Colorado
01.2026 - 05.2026
  • Transported lodge guests from Breckenridge to resort areas and local destinations.
  • Assisted guests with luggage handling and boarding procedures, ensuring smooth and timely transport.
  • Drove mountain routes while monitoring weather and road conditions carefully.
  • Maintained safe driving habits to protect property and the general public on roadways.
  • Delivered friendly customer service to passengers in person and on the phone, enhancing overall guest experience.
  • Answered questions and shared insights on local attractions and facility amenities, helping guests make informed choices.
  • Checked shuttle vehicle before trips for safety and cleanliness.
  • Maintained a clean interior of the vehicle by vacuuming, wiping surfaces, and replenishing supplies.
  • Reported vehicle concerns and service needs to lodge management

Ski Instructor at Breckenridge

Vail Resorts Inc
Breckenridge, Colorado
11.2008 - 04.2025

● Instructed individuals and groups aged three to fourteen with varied skill levels in skiing techniques, safety

procedures, and mountain awareness.

● Customized lesson plans based on students' skill levels, learning styles, and personal goals to enhance

progression and confidence.

● Provided clear, constructive feedback to to parents and students with a summary of the day's tasks

and next steps and goals.

● Provided private lesson instruction to all levels and ages while also selling additional private lessons for

continuing assignments.

● Provided private lesson instruction to all levels and ages while also selling additional private lessons for continuing assignments.

Child Alpine Ski & Ride School Supervisor

Vail Resorts Inc
Breckenridge, Colorado
10.2021 - 01.2023

● Mentored and trained new instructors on effective teaching methodologies, guest interaction, and safety

Developed safety protocols that improved guest experiences.

● Collaborated with other ski school supervisors, location managers, and general managers to coordinate

lesson schedules, time entry, payroll and improving instructional programs through continued feedback. .

● Assisted in organizing ski school events, fun learning environments and partnering with ski school support

staff.

Raft Guide

Lost Paddle Rafting,
Cañon City, Colorado
04.2008 - 10.2016

Led whitewater rafting day trips and overnight trips, ensuring safety and enjoyment for adults and children.

Navigated river hazards and coordinated rapid commands during downriver travel.

  • Provided first aid assistance while on the water.
  • Guided mountain biking excursions, enhancing outdoor experiences for adults and children.
  • Cultivated relationships with members and guests, fostering a welcoming environment that encouraged repeat visits.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Communications

University of Colorado At Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, CO
05-2011

Skills

  • Passenger transport
  • Defensive driving
  • Clean driving record
  • Safety inspections
  • Vehicle inspection
  • Emergency response
  • Safety protocols
  • Customer engagement

Timeline

Shuttle Driver

The Lodge at Breckenridge
01.2026 - 05.2026

Mountain Bike Coach / Instructor

Breckenridge Recreational Center
03.2025 - 08.2025

River Raft Guide

Rancho Del Rio
04.2023 - 09.2023

Child Alpine Ski & Ride School Supervisor

Vail Resorts Inc
10.2021 - 01.2023

Raft Guide

Royal Gorge Rafting,
03.2019 - 09.2023

Ski Instructor at Breckenridge

Vail Resorts Inc
11.2008 - 04.2025

Raft Guide

Lost Paddle Rafting,
04.2008 - 10.2016

Bachelor of Arts - Communications

University of Colorado At Colorado Springs
Blake O'Donnell