Born and raised in Tennessee, John Michael (JM) developed a passion for climbing at a young age exploring the beautiful sandstone bluffs and boulders of the southeast. After graduating from college with a degree in Environmental Policy and Sustainable Action, he decided to head west and landed in Jackson, Wyoming where a new playground awaited him. JM soon discovered the joys of powder skiing and never looked back. Since then he has honed his skills in the Tetons, exploring its steep couloirs in the winter and abundance of quality alpine climbs in the summer. JM is certified as an American Mountain Guides Association Ski Guide and is actively pursuing certifications in the Rock and Alpine disciplines as well in order to become an internationally-certified mountain guide. He also holds his American Avalanche Association Pro 2 certification, is Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certified, and works as an AIARE instructor teaching recreational avalanche courses in the Tetons. Outside of the US, JM has experienced the steep skiing cultures of the Alps and the Canadian Rockies, and has explored the desert rock of Morocco. When not guiding or instructing, he coaches the Jackson Hole Ski Club's "Backcountry Program” during the colder months and spends time growing food and fishing during the warmer months. We are stoked to have JM in position to tail guide WKS3-5 and lead guide WK6 of our 2027 Kyrgyzstan season.