Shawn Riley
Fayetteville,WV
Summary
Accomplished Whitewater Rafting Guide with over 24 years of experience, including a distinguished 25-year military career as a First Sergeant in the US Army. Expert in rafting techniques and staff management, demonstrated through leading diverse teams and ensuring guest safety. Recognized for adaptability and exceptional leadership, with a history of enhancing team performance and client satisfaction.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
Whitewater Rafting Guide
Adventures on the Gorge
2011.04 - Current
- 24 years of whitewater experience on multiple sections of New River Gorge and Gauley River sections.
- Led and guided over 75 scout leaders and troops through Whitewater in career.
- Mentored Several Scouts in Whitewater Skills required for Whitewater Merit Badge.
- Experienced with multi-day permitted rafting rowing 860 miles of Grand Canyon, 102 miles of Middle Fork of Salmon River and 55 miles of Salt River.
- Whitewater experience on 10 foreign rivers in five countries overseas.
- Supported fellow guides with equipment setup and breakdown, contributing to efficient trip operations.
- Provided exceptional customer service throughout each trip journey, resulting in numerous positive reviews from satisfied clients.
- Demonstrated commitment to environmental stewardship by participating in river clean-up events and educating clients about responsible outdoor practices.
- Collaborated with team members to execute seamless emergency response procedures when necessary, prioritizing guest safety at all times.
- Led groups of various ages/skill levels on whitewater rafting trips, successfully tailoring each experience to accommodate individual needs and abilities.
- Communicated effectively with diverse groups of clients, ensuring clear understanding of trip expectations and safety protocols.
- Maintained a high level of expertise in whitewater rafting techniques, resulting in excellent client feedback.
- Adapted trip plans based on changing weather conditions or water levels, maintaining a safe and enjoyable experience for guests.
First Sergeant
US Army
1999.04 - Current
- Over 25 years of Military Service
- Lead supervisor to the CEO of Special Forces Support Company
- In Charge of 20 supervisors of various levels of responsibilities
- Oversees all matters regarding the health, moral, welfare and leadership development of 120 Employees.
- Overall Supervisor in charge of supervisors for sustainment, Maintenance, distribution, parachute rigging and medical sections in support of Special Forces.
- In Charge of monitoring Aviation Fuel, Vehicle Fuel and Water levels during the World and National Boy Scout Jamboree's.
- Managed 1.2 million dollars of operational and marketing funds for Recruiting and Retention.
- Interacted with key community leaders, mayors, council members, teachers to support community events.
- Soldiers Medal recipient for saving the life of Deputy Sherif.
- Spot lighted in Military Times for having dual career as river guide and US Army.
- Features on Fox News for saving puppies in the 2016 West Virginia Flood.
Parachuting Instructor
Army
2012.06 - 2023.09
- 12 years of working as Army Parachute Instructor
- Supervised and controlled parachute operations for over 300 paratroopers
- Oversaw the execution of more than 40 high-risk special operation parachute training events
- Committed to Safety and Excellence by accomplishing over 70 static line airborne operations.
- Conducted over 400 parachute inspections ensuring the safe packing and rigging of jumpers.
- Promoted classroom safety, collaboration, and best practices.
- Boosted student performance by providing individualized support and targeted feedback.
Education
No Degree - Supply Chain Management
DeVry University
Villa Park, IL04.2027
Certification - Swift Water Rescure Level 4
Rapid Rescure LLC
Fayetteville WV05.2023
Certification - Wilderness First Responder
Outdoor Leadership
Fayetteville WV06.2022
Master Leaders Course - Strategic Leadership
Non-Commissioned Officer Academy
FT Campbell Kentucky 06.2018
Skills
- Multilingual Proficiency
- Route Planning
- CPR training
- Physical Fitness
- Outdoor cooking
- Wildlife Knowledge
- Rafting Techniques
- Adaptability and Flexibility
- Reliability
- Team building
- Tourism Management
- Staff Management
- Environmental awareness
- Swiftwater Rescue
Timeline
Parachuting Instructor
Army
2012.06 - 2023.09
Whitewater Rafting Guide
Adventures on the Gorge
2011.04 - Current
First Sergeant
US Army
1999.04 - Current
No Degree - Supply Chain Management
DeVry University
Certification - Swift Water Rescure Level 4
Rapid Rescure LLC
Certification - Wilderness First Responder
Outdoor Leadership
Master Leaders Course - Strategic Leadership
Non-Commissioned Officer Academy
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