Real Stories #PROFESSIONALS

Sharing an authentic representation of what it’s like to live and work in the mountains.

Branko, Director of Analytics (Mammoth, CA)

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We have loved getting to know Branko because of his passion for bringing his community together and inspiring others to have careers while living an adventurous life in the mountains. ⠀
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How did you end up in the mountains? ⠀
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I always thrived in the mountains, always felt at home in steep terrain and forests. During college I spent a lot of time in the mountains; once graduated I moved to a mountain town and only lived in mountain towns since. Most of the work I do has been done remotely – a big part of getting into online marketing was in order to be able to live wherever I choose.⠀
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How did you become a Director of Analytics? ⠀
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In college, I started an ecommerce branch of my family’s company, then volunteered in social media marketing. Once graduated from the master, I worked full-time at a digital agency. Then I got fired but a client asked me to continue working for them. I started my own LLC, and over time, narrowed my focused down from all types of online marketing to just advanced analytics. That allowed me to become an equity partner and director of an analytics company. I complement the online work by organizing workshops for remote professionals, something that has now been bringing great perks.⠀
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What is your advice for someone looking for a job in the mountains? ⠀
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Pick a field you want to excel in, one that can be done remotely. Diligently grow the skill set needed for that field. Move up to the mountain town of your dreams – don’t compromise, it can take a lot of work to make it and you want to be fueled by excitement every day. Contribute to the local community.⠀

Colleen, Human Resources Director, Summit Community Care Clinic (Breckenridge, CO)

How did you start a career in the mountains?⠀
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I started in housekeeping admin after graduation from U of O and moving out to the mountains. My ability and willingness to speak Spanish helped me work with our wonderful community helping in training. I moved into Human Resources and worked on recruitment and training. For the past 19 years, I have worked in a variety of areas, now at the full scope of HR.⠀
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What is the best part of your job?⠀
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I love my job and organization because we positively impact the health and wellness of community members, families and local organizations. Everyday is different, with challenging work that engages my critical thinking. My team engages my love of improving through a variety of ongoing opportunities. The collaboration and hard work that goes into our work is always progressing.⠀ ⠀
What do you love most about the mountains? ⠀
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Beautiful open space, wilderness, trails, community activities and people.⠀
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What advice do you have for someone looking to grow their career in the mountains?⠀
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Be open to working in a variety of different entry level positions to get established.⠀

Thanks Colleen for sharing your story and your awesome work in the community!!!!!!