Our Staff
The Lord has blessed ACO with a truly incredible staff. The men and women that have chosen to be part of this organization all enjoy the same common bond of wanting to share the rivers we paddle with you, our guests. They range in age from their late teens to being “seasoned citizens” and come from all walks of life. They are some of the most caring, dedicated, and professional raft guides you’ll ever paddle with. All together, our guides have 396 years of river running experience! We are very proud of each and every one and wanted to give you this opportunity to meet them before your next trip with us.
Select a guide here to jump to his or her bio:
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
I love being outside and being active in the outdoors, especially anything on the water. Rafting combines all of these!
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Every time you go down the river it is different from the last time. And the people.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
The Genesee Country Village and Museum in Mumford NY
Duties
- raft guide
- site manager
Year Hired
2015
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
I started whitewater rafting when I was 10, and have been addicted ever since.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Meeting new people, and spending time on the water.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
The first time my dad took me hunting.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
Oak Orchard Creek.
Duties
- raft guide
Year Hired
2019
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
I love being outside—it was as simple as that. Wandering through the trails and woods at Letchworth is enchanting on its own, but getting down in the valley and looking at the gorge from the bottom up is magical. We have the best views in the park!
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The excitement the gorge brings to our guests is a huge highlight for me. We meet people from all over the world, and we get to share a common passion on the water. It’s pure bliss to see children and adults fall in love with nature, and with the beauty of Western New York. It’s also exciting to watch people step out of their comfort zones and try something new. There is a whole world out there waiting to be explored!
Most memorable outdoor experience?
We live in a playground! I can’t say one experience was more epic than another because they have all been so amazing. My first time caving is pretty high up on the list, and then there are many incredible kayaking, climbing, hiking, mountain biking, rafting and skiing experiences that will stay with me forever. I love being outdoors, and I am grateful to live in an area where so much adventure is accessible.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
There are so many hidden gems in Western New York—from lakes, hiking/biking trails, state lands, rivers, and parks, we have the opportunity for adventure all year around. I would recommend Hemlock Lake for a beautiful and relaxing day in your kayak, or Rock City for a fun day of exploring!
Duties
- raft guide
Year Hired
2018
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
Invitation by guides, since I had river experience years before I accepted the invitation.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Sharing with customers a safe, great time.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
Besides rafting, skiing in Colorado.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
Zoar Valley. Some old-growth trees and home of one of the largest wild grape vines in the USA.
Duties
- raft guide
Year Hired
2011
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
I came as a guest and fell in love with it.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The whitewater on the river and the family atmosphere within ACO.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
I took a road trip to S. Dakota and tent-camped all the way out and back. I saw so many beautiful things as I traveled.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
Webster Park - there are lots of great hiking trails and the sunsets are beautiful.
Duties
- trip leader
- ACA certified SRT instructor
Year Hired
2005
Note
Sadly, following a courageous battle with cancer, Chuck passed away in the fall of 2016. He will be missed by many however his legacy will live on forever in the hearts of all whose lives he touched over the years.
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
The adventure, being outdoors & interacting with people.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The endless variety of people I meet and experiences to enjoy.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
I had an out-of-boat experience (i.e. - a flipped raft) while on the Lower New in WV., which led to a great deal of celebrating life!
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
The bike paths through Clarence, Newstead, and Akron are very scenic and pleasant.
Duties
- trip leader
- safety boater
Year Hired
2006
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
Adventure, adrenaline, and the opportunity to give the best version of myself to others.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I get to utilize my strengths, meet new people, and do my part to help provide amazing experiences for those who go out with us.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
The Finger Lakes National Forest
Duties
- raft guide
- ACA certified SRT instructor
- BSA accredited merit badge counselor
Year Hired
2017
Note
Dan passed away unexpectedly of a heart attack in early August of 2018. He was one of the elder statesmen in the rafting world, having worked as a guide initially for ARO, and then ACO & ZVC since the late 1970's. His friendship and mentorship to so many of us will be remembered always.
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
I enjoyed being outdoors on the water as much as possible and to be paid for it was an added bonus.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Introducing others to experiencing the joy of paddling and showing them the beauty of the local waterways.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
Canoe camping down the west branch of the Susquehanna River with some close friends.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
The cross country ski trails at Allegany State Park, they are incredibly serene.
Duties
- trip leader
Year Hired
1987
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
I needed some extra cash, wanted more time outdoors and love being in, on, or around the water. The solution seemed obvious.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The scenery - no matter what the day brings I need only look around to realize how lucky I am.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
I once co-led a group of at-risk boys on a 30 day canoe trip down the Suwanee River. We paddled from the very start in Georgia, through Florida and into the Gulf of Mexico. The trip in of itself was amazing, but the way the whole experience transformed the boys in such a positive way is what really made it memorable.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
Conklin's Gully in Naples, NY. 'Although you can take the path along the edge of the gully to see the cascades, I prefer walking in the stream and climbing up the waterfalls because it makes me feel like a kid again.'
Duties
- trip leader
- site manager
- lead team-building facilitator
Year Hired
2005
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
I’ve always enjoyed being in the outdoors especially around streams and rivers. Having been a guest in 2009, when I was given the opportunity to change careers, Raft Guiding with Adventure Calls Outfitters was the first thing that popped into my head.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I love seeing the smiles on our guest’s faces and hearing the laughter (and screams!) as we go down the river.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
1) Riding horses and fly fishing with my wife in the Rocky Mountains of Montana. 2) Kayaking fishing offshore Cape Cod with whales surfacing close by.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
Kayaking Canadice Lake at dawn, the water like a mirror, not another soul in sight.
Duties
- raft guide
- NYSDEC licensed fishing guide
Year Hired
2015
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
It would be my love of the outdoors, especially the beauty of the river. Also, the need to find a place of both peace and meaningfulness in my life.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
What I enjoy most about my job is that no two trips down the river are ever the same. Each and every trip offers something new! Also, the fact it’s not work - it’s fun, and it’s not coworkers- it’s family.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
Riding horseback and camping in the mountains of Wyoming.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
I have to agree with some of the other guides, the Eternal Flame in Chestnut Ridge Park.
Duties
- raft guide
Year Hired
2019
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
I really enjoyed rafting and was looking for a part-time job at the time.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Showing people a fun, safe time on the river!
Most memorable outdoor experience?
Rescuing a raft that was stuck in the hole at 'Grand Finale' Rapids on Cattaraugus Creek.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
Hi Tor Wildlife Management Area, specifically Conklin's and Clark's Gulleys.
Duties
- trip leader
- safety boater
- paddle Instructor
- bus driver
- ACA certified paddle instructor
- ACA certified SRT instructor
Year Hired
1999
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
I came on a trip as a guest while visiting Letchworth State Park and instantly fell in love how beautiful the park is and how awesome the guides are.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I love meeting new people and sharing what I love with them. I also love working with such knowledgeable and friendly people.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
Swimming in the Caribbean Sea with the ancient Mayan City of Tulum in the background.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
Griffis Sculpture Park - E. Otto, NY
Duties
- trip leader
- site manager
Year Hired
2011
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
I knew I wanted a summer job that would keep me outside and active. I have been around water since I was little having grown up on Lake Ontario. I started whitewater rafting in college and thought there would be no better way to spend my summer.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The chance to go rafting and enjoy the summer weather.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
Rafting the New River in West Virginia for my brother in-law's bachelor party
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
Allegheny Reservoir. My favorite wakeboarding spot.
Duties
- raft guide
Year Hired
2014
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
The beauty and freedom found on the river and the opportunity to share the experience with others.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I truly enjoy interacting with new people and seeing the enjoyment on their faces, whether it be from the thrill of the rapids or the profound peace floating through the calm sections.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
I have two - a guide-only raft trip on the Genesee at very high water, we did the entire 5 1/2 miles in 19 minutes and witnessing 11 people being baptized on a river trip at Letchworth, one of whom was my husband.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
The Eternal Flame in Chestnut Ridge Park.
Duties
- site manager
- raft guide
- team-building facilitator
Year Hired
2005
What drew you into working for ACO?
I saw an ad in the paper and it sounded like fun.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Interacting with & teasing the guests, watching them having so much fun!
Most memorable outdoor experience?
The day I got to guide a raft at Letchworth in big water. I always bring spare clothes w/ me just in case, except I forgot them this particular day.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
Almost any of the State or County Parks in this area. There are so many close by, people should take advantage of them.
Duties
- bus driver
- cat herder
Year Hired
2007
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
A few years back, my family and I took a trip down the river with Adventure Calls Outfitters and I became instantly hooked to the experience. Being a teacher, I thought that becoming a raft guide would be an awesome summer gig. Turns out I was right on with that thought.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
My answer is twofold. First, the people. The people I work with and the customers I provide a service for. Secondly, the challenge of consistently having great runs down the river and always striving to satisfy the customers.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
I once road my bicycle from Seattle to Denver via the Pacific Coast and across some desert lands.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
Genesee County Park in East Bethany, New York. Great hiking trails and serenity.
Duties
- raft guide
Year Hired
2017
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
I started as a guest on a trip in Letchworth a few years ago. Several trips on all three rivers and countless conversations with guides later, I realized I wanted to be a part of this awesome family.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The people and being out in nature.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
Two week canoe trip through the boundry waters between Minnesota and Canada.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
Lockport Nature Trail
Duties
- trip leader
- BSA accredited merit badge counselor
Year Hired
2016
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
Being outdoors and paddling w/ my dad
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Interacting with the guests, seeing all the smiles on their faces after the first set of rapids.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
Jumping off a 20' high rock into the river when our Church Youth Group went rafting in Tennessee several years ago.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
Walking along the Erie Canal foot/bike paths. It's very pretty and quiet.
Duties
- trip leader
- site manager
Year Hired
2008
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
I was friends w/ Jim Redline and he asked me to help him out when he started Zoar Valley Canoe & Raft.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Being on the water and the challenge of running every single trip down the river as safely as possible.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
A canoe trip on the Bloodvein River in Manitoba, CA. It is an absolutely beautiful river.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
Deerlick Nature Preserve - it's an incredible hiking area along the South branch of the Cattaraugus Creek.
Duties
- trip leader
- guide mentor
- safety boater
Year Hired
1983
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
After being a flatwater kayaker for years, I decided to give whitewater rafting a try and I was hooked! My raft guide that day was Todd Smith, and once he told me ACO was hiring and would train me, the rest came natural.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Watching the expressions of awe on the faces of inner city youth who haven’t had much exposure to nature as they raft down the Genesee river. When they see a bald eagle in flight for the first time up close, it’s just like my first time all over again and we get to experience it together. A close second is the camaraderie that is shared amongst the ACO Staff.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
Hiking up Croagh Patrick (Ireland’s Pilgrimage Mountain) located in County Mayo, Ireland with my wife and friends. The fog was so thick that we couldn’t see more than a few feet in front of us and we had to do some rock scrambling to get to the summit but it was worth it. The bowl of soup and a pint that we enjoyed in the Pub conveniently located near the trail-head at the base was a nice touch too!
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
A paddle trip during the Autumn months down Oak Orchard River North of Medina, NY. The changing colors of the leaves and the wildlife will make you forget all about the cooler temperatures.
Duties
- raft guide
Year Hired
2017
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
The fun and adventure, plus it is way better than a summer part-time job mowing grass.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Taking people down the river that never ever thought they'd be able to do it.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
Seeing the fog over the gorge at Letchworth State Park in the early morning. It is such an inspiring sight.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
The South end of Letchworth State Park. It's amazing how many people, especially from the Rochester area, never venture past the North end of the park.
Duties
- trip leader
- site manager
- team-building facilitator
Year Hired
2008
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
I organized a raft trip of ski bum friends w/ a Canadian River Outfitter and fell in love with the sport. Years later I wanted to go again and found ACO on the internet, saw they were hiring, and decided to take a shot at being a guide.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Hands down, the adrenaline rush. I'm an adrenaline junkie, just ask my friends.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
Umm.....can I pick two? 1.) Backpacking with my sister and one of my dogs in Allegheny National Forest. The weekend was totally amazing, can't wait to go again. 2.) Skiing in the Swiss Alps. An unbelievable experience. Ask me about either one and I'll talk your ear off.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
Eternal Flame Falls - Chestnut Ridge County Park in Orchard Park, NY
Duties
- trip leader
- safety boater
Year Hired
2009
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
I love being outdoors and enjoy sharing the outdoor experience with other people. Where else can you get paid to run whitewater, get a workout and have fun with new and interesting people every trip?
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Whether fishing, kayaking or running whitewater, I find a certain cathartic quality to being present on rivers and streams. I also love that I have a fresh audience for my jokes with every run down the river.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
Hiking the Great Range Traverse in the Adirondack High Peaks as a day hike.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
My favorite place in WNY is Chestnut Ridge Park and the Eternal Flame. A close second is Little Rock City in Little Valley, NY.
Duties
- raft guide
Year Hired
2018
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
I've always loved being outdoors, so when I saw the opportunity in the Girl Scout program guide, I had to take my scouts. It was my first year as a leader and I had 4 cadettes. We did the rafting and camping weekend program. I instantly fell in love with the romance of Letchworth and the excitement of white water. I knew I had to become a guide. I came back every year as a guest after that. It took me almost 4 years to work up the nerve to apply, but I'm so glad I did, it's One of the best decisions of my life.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Being a raft guide allows me to share my love and knowledge of the outdoors and geology with lots of new people. I truly love Letchworth for all its wonders and beauty. No two trips down the river are ever the same. Plus, It never feels like work, which makes it the best job I'll ever have!
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
One of my favorite spots to go is the Homestead bridge in Tonawanda. I can drive, walk or ride my bike there, and launch or rent a kayak rain or shine. From there I can take a leisure paddle up Tonawanda Creek to the Dog Park Island, or down the Erie Canal to do a little history tour, and if I'm really motivated I can even paddle out to Niawanda Park on the Niagara River. Or I can just sit on the bridge and watch the bustling Gateway Harbor. There's always something going on. Weekly concerts, art and food festivals and even fishing tournaments.
Duties
- raft guide
Year Hired
2016
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
Working outdoors running whitewater
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Meeting new people and making new friends
Duties
- raft guide
Year Hired
2014
What drew you into working for ACO?
I love driving bus and was given the opportunity to do so.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The camaraderie among the staff and working at Letchworth State Park.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
Panama Rocks, it’s a great place to explore.
Duties
- bus driver
Year Hired
2015
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
Additional time to be with my wife!
What do you enjoy most about your job?
People having a memorable time.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
Going out to Zion, Bryce and upper Grand Canyon.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
Durand Eastman Park
Duties
- raft guide
Year Hired
2018
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
I loved rafting as a guest and decided to take the next step.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The camaraderie amongst the staff and showing the guests a great time on the river.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
I have two. 1.) Hiking up the back side of Halfdome in Yosemite National Park. 2.) Participating in the 'Face of America' Memorial Bike Ride in 2002 from Ground Zero to the Pentagon. That humbling event will stay with me the rest of my life.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
Zoar Valley. It is an incredible place.
Duties
- trip leader
- safety boater
Year Hired
2003
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
The opportunity! I had been rafting with Adventure Calls for over ten years as a customer, and I jumped on the chance to be a part of the team.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Every trip is different, and every day is different on the river, not only do I get to see the beauty that is Letchworth park, but I also get to enjoy the wildlife that calls this place home.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
I could never pick just one out of the multitude of wilderness outings I have been on, every experience has its own epic place in my memory, but I have recently discovered caving, and I’m excited for a completely new form of outdoor exploration and adventure.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
Carlton Hill multiple use area....a great place for anything from trail runs to mountain biking, to horseback riding and hunting, a truly beautiful place that I am grateful to have so near.
Duties
- raft guide
Year Hired
2018
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
I love adventures in the outdoors.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Sharing the rafting experience with others.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
Rafting on the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
The gorges at Letchworth State Park, Watkins Glen State Park, and Chautauqua State Forest.
Duties
- trip leader
Year Hired
2008
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
Wanting to be on the water / in the wilderness.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Taking people outdoors and teaching them about what we find as we're going down the river.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
The Buffalo River - paddling along it in a canoe or kayak is the best way to see things you wouldn't otherwise. The views of the grain elevators are incredible.
Duties
- trip leader
- safety boater
- merit badge counselor
- team-building facilitator
- BSA accredited merit badge counselor
- ACA certified srt instructor
Year Hired
2006
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
My love of Letchworth State Park & the Genesee River.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Watching people enjoy nature and seeing the smiles on their faces, especially the children.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
Getting thrown from a raft I was guiding after it hit a rock. I found shortly thereafter the raft was making a strange hissing sound.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
Emery Park in South Wales, NY. It is still very rustic and quite beautiful.
Duties
- raft guide
Year Hired
2010
What drew you into working for ACO?
I've brought school groups down for the past several years, saw what a great time everyone that worked here seemed to be having and decided I wanted to be part of that.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I love everything about it. I love being in the park and getting to raft every once in a while. I really enjoy working with a great bunch of people, it's more like a family than just a bunch of employees.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
I really enjoyed traveling to different parts of the country with my mother, especially to Florida.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
I can't say enough about what a great place Letchworth State Park is. I've visited here many times over the years and it's special every single time.
Duties
- bus driver
Year Hired
2019
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
I've always loved the water and paddling so I had to jump at the opportunity to guide.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Being surrounded by the outdoors and interacting with people from all walks of life.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
Hiking with a friend in Missouri and getting trapped by a flash flood. Needless to say we had to do some swift water stream crossing to get out.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
Stony Brook State Park (Dansville, NY)
Duties
- trip leader
- bus driver
- BSA merit badge counselor
- ACA accredited srt instructor
- NYSDEC licensed fishing guide
Year Hired
2015
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
I love being on the water, the adrenaline rush that comes with the thrills.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I love interacting with the guests and the camaraderie with the other guides.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
I guess most memorable moment in the outdoors was bringing my Mom and her best friend rafting after her battle with lung cancer and introducing her to all of my new friends.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
Akron Park - it's a beautiful place, especially the waterfalls in winter.
Duties
- raft guide
Year Hired
2009
What drew you into becoming a raft guide?
I enjoy being on the water.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Sharing the outdoor experience with the guests.
Most memorable outdoor experience?
There's too many to choose just one.
Hidden gem in Western NY to recommend to others?
My backyard in the rolling hills of Wyoming County!
Duties
- raft guide
- site manager
- team-building facilitator
Year Hired
2001