Kate Koons

Senior Instructor

Kate Koons

Kate began her career in outdoor education when she was 19. Over the past 23 years, Kate has worked in a variety of capacities in the outdoor industry. After years of working with a few small outdoor education and wilderness companies, she started her work at NOLS, where she still works on occasion. Kate continues to work for NOLS teaching Risk Management trainings and instructor seminars. In between field contracts and through the years, Kate worked in Antarctica managing risk at small camps and accompanying scientists on expeditions for five seasons, as well as guiding throughout the Himalayas. For seven years, Kate managed the winter program for NOLS, training instructors and creating curriculum for both avalanche and backcountry touring. In 2017, Kate transitioned to working for the American Avalanche Association as the Pro Training Coordinator, managing professional avalanche education within the U.S., as well as ski guiding and teaching avalanche courses across the West. When not working, Kate can be found in Victor, ID with her husband and two dogs, wandering in the mountains, cooking food, and dreaming up her next adventure.


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