Mike became a NOLS Instructor in 2000 and has taught a wide variety of skills for the school including skiing, mountaineering, caving, canyoneering, wilderness medicine and rescue. His rescue experience includes many technical SAR operations in a variety of challenging environments. Mike is a certified AAA Avalanche Professional, former ski patroller and has authored original research on avalanche trauma. Mike earned his PhD at the University of Utah, and now holds a position there as an EMS Program Coordinator and Training Officer. In addition to teaching for NOLS and the University of Utah, Mike continues to provide front line care as a paramedic, working in unique and often hazardous situations. Mike is a fellow of the Academy of Wilderness Medicine.