Growing up in Vernon, B.C., Jesse Crockett always had a passion for the outdoors. With a plan to become a ski and raft guide, he enrolled in the Adventure Tourism Business Operations (ATBO) program at College of the Rockies’ Golden campus.
“The ATBO program had the perfect balance of adventure and studies,” he said. “Golden is also the ideal place for the program. Mountains and rivers all around you, there’s an adventure opportunity every day, in every season.”
The ATBO program turned out to teach him more than he anticipated. Not only did he discover that his habit of hurting himself could create a challenge for steady employment in the adventure tourism industry, he also learned he had a passion for business and management.
“In my first year in the ATBO program, my focus changed. I still wanted to continue in tourism but now I was looking to achieve a degree,” he said.
After completing the ATBO two-year diploma, Jesse went on to Vancouver Island University to complete a Bachelor of Tourism Management – with distinction.
After a series of jobs with increasing levels of responsibility, Jesse was hired as the General Manager of a new boutique hotel located at the base of RED Mountain Resort in Rossland, B.C., called The Josie.
His first year at The Josie has been a memorable one, as the hotel was named Best New Ski Hotel in North America and nominated for the World’s Best New Ski Hotel by the World Ski Awards.
The father of four children, Jesse is now a family adventure seeker in his free time. He’s grateful to have found his true calling through the ATBO program.
“My two years at College of the Rockies set me up for success in my education and in my career. I am thankful for the two years I spent there.”
Learn more about the Adventure Tourism Business Operations program.