Meet the OnwardUP Team
With our current combined experience in the outdoor industry, our OnwardUP team numbers continue to grow! We thought it would be a great time to (re)introduce ourselves to all of you. We are OnwardUP, but who are the faces behind the name?
You all know we forge connections and partnerships that enable elevated outdoor experiences. With focus on character, entrepreneurialism and a high-level of experience, in a variety of outdoor and business environments, our team is able to focus on the fine details of servicing our dealers and creating growth for our vendors. We are a dedicated crew, with compassionate hearts.
…but how cold is too cold? Where did we grow-up? What music makes us rock-out and what makes us laugh the most? What the heck did we do before we joined the OnwardUP team?
Our next highlighted team member in our Meet the OnwardUP Team social series is Kim Austin! We asked Kim some skill testing questions and here’s what he said to say!
Read more below!
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Any fun nicknames?
“Kimbo or Kimmers.”
Where do you reside?
“Squamish, BC”
What is your job title at OnwardUP?
“Sales and Operations Coordinator“
How would you describe your role at OnwardUP?
“The cat that wears a lot of hats..”
How long have you been a team member?
“3 years“
Share with us how you got into the outdoor industry?
“I’ve always been passionate about the outdoors and after a year climbing trip in 2014 I shifted my career goals and started working for a large outdoor company…now here I am!“
Do you have a mentor?
“Not really, when I need some guidance I look to my core friends and family. “
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve overcome?
“The foyer into motherhood“
What’s your ideal work-life balance?
“This is hard and there is no clear answer for me but I guess: working, spending time with family and time to pursue my personal goals…which can look different everyday. “
What can always make you feel better after a bad day?
“My family and time outdoors! Fresh air, laughs and an impromptu dance party are a must when navigating a challenging day.“
What makes you laugh the most?
“My partner and my kiddo.“
How do you like to spend your free time?
“With my family: usually climbing, hiking, skiing or just hanging out in our garden..”
What are you most proud of yourself for?
“Staying true to myself while balancing a career, and family all while keeping it as joyful and fun as possible..”
What is your biggest irrational fear?
“Being stabbed – ekkkk“
What do you feel most passionate about?
“My family.”
Do you live by any words of wisdom?
“You are in charge, so make it a great day.“
Book / podcast recommendations?
“Greenwood by Michael Christie or The Seed Keeper by Diane Wilson“
One thing you have learnt in the mountains that you wish everyone knew?
“You are stronger than you think you are.“
Are you an early bird or a night owl?
“Could be either!
What type of music are you into?
“I love all music and there isn’t a specific genre that I am into but there is always music playing in our house. Currently I am loving anything by Glass Beams. Pink Floyd, Kevin Morby and Dead Can Dance (just to name a few!) are always top hits on my playlist.”
What’s your favourite way to spend a day off?
“Hands down, anything with my family..”
Name a non-profit in your community that is doing amazing work/or that you’re affiliated with?
“My Sea to Sky!”
Upcoming adventure plans, you’d like to share?
“Lots to things on the go, nothing I can share right now!“
Do you have a favourite quote?
“Something I always say is: We are all human, doing the best we can.“
What was the best concert you’ve attended?
“We saw Jungle at the Orpheum in Vancouver a couple years ago and it was one big boogie fest!“
What’s the one item of clothing you couldn’t live without?
“Underwear and socks“
A value you feel you align with, with OnwardUP’s values
“Relationships – I love people!“
Do you have a hero? Who?
“No, not really.
What keeps you going?
“My family.”
Favourite place within walking distance of your house?
“The trails behind our house, quick way to reset, get in touch with nature and take a deep breath.“
Activity of choice?
“Anything with my family…which is usually climbing.“
How did you get into [said activity]?
“I started climbing when I met my partner.“
A Highlight from last year?
“My son learning to ski.”
What’s one piece of gear that is always in your backpack and why?
“As for gear, it changes based on what I am doing, but I never take out my first aid kit, it is a MUST.“
How cold is too cold?
“It would depend on what I am doing….brrrrr“
If you weren’t working for OnwadUP, what would you be doing?
“Mental Health Awareness and Support.”
