Introducing Nadia’s Notes, a monthly series from our Beaver Creek Resort COO Nadia Guerriero.
Hi everyone!
I’m excited to kick off this opportunity to connect with all of you, and the timing has extra special meaning for me: today is my 15th anniversary of working for Vail Resorts. I started on October 8th, 2007 at Northstar California Resort as their Director of Events and Conference Services. Looking back on the past 15 years, it has certainly been an Experience of a Lifetime.
I came into this industry with a fairly different background than my peers. I had been a sports agent, representing Olympic, X Games, and action sports athletes. While I was very comfortable in the resort atmosphere and loved the industry as a whole, turning my expertise to resort operations was definitely a shift in focus. I am grateful to all those who welcomed me to the resort with open arms, who taught me the ropes, and shared their knowledge.
As I reflect on some of my proudest moments in my career, one that comes to mind is cofacilitating the Women in Leadership initiative for Vail Resorts alongside Jyll Lottner. The program was designed to provide a dedicated space for leading women throughout our company and investing in the development of high-performing female leaders. This initiative has blossomed and Vail Resorts has shown up as a true leader in developing women leaders in the outdoor industry.
Being a female resort general manager in a formerly male-dominated industry is all about creating the possibility for someone else. I had the good fortune to come after trailblazers in the industry who showed me what was possible, so I’m passionate and dedicated to doing the same for other female leaders that I am currently working alongside and that will come after me. Our company has seen tremendous success in driving gender equity throughout our business, and I’m proud that we are now setting our sights on the broader diversity, equity and inclusion conversation.
Aside from being a part of these amazing steps forward for the industry, I can’t talk about career achievements without mentioning McCoy Park. Last year’s 250-acre terrain expansion is an incredible commitment to the guest experience at Beaver Creek. McCoy Park’s dedicated family friendly zone for beginner and intermediate skiers and riders has an amazing natural feel, including signature groomed, gladed trails. I love that it’s a place for the entire family to connect with nature and each other in an accessible bowl setting. As a mother, I am so proud to see a dedication to family terrain where the entire family can explore more, together.
With the seasons quickly changing already here in Beaver Creek, I’m really excited to soon start blowing snow (fingers crossed for some cold temperatures next week!) and welcome you all to our resort for Opening Day come November 23rd.
Think snow,
Nadia