Colgin leads weekly meetings with 30 people while navigating a male-dominated industry. “I continue to work hard to create a more inclusive environment for those who might not traditionally feel at home in snowboarding spaces,” Colgin said. “It’s rewarding to foster a culture within the company that values learning and growth, regardless of one’s experience level in snowboarding.” Marek Leavenworth is a senior studying arts, media and technology. As chief marketing officer, he’s immersed in experiential learning, from communicating with prospective manufacturers to writing proposals. “You have to learn quickly,” Leavenworth said. The marketing team generates content for social platforms, responds to inquiries, coordinates events with the sales team and promotes SnoPlanks, while Leavenworth builds management experience. “I’ve had to adapt teaching styles and learn more about delegation, ensuring that I also have time to carry out my duties as a student,” Leavenworth said. Like the other officers, he endorses the SnoPlanks Academy experience. “You’ll be surprised by how much your educational experience will be amplified,” Leavenworth said. Senior Ryan Henkle is head of finance and chief operating officer. It’s been rewarding to set up the company to comply with guidelines and regulations and drive the negotiation for the manufacturing contract. “When people hear what we are trying to accomplish, their faces light up with excitement,” Henkle said. A snowboarder since sixth grade and former high school competitor, Henkle is stoked to be riding one of the first student-produced boards. “SnoPlanks has been the best experience of my college career,” he said. It’s boosted his confidence and finds him pondering starting his own business after finishing his degree. “The knowledge I’ve gained is incredible,” he said. “There’s nothing like it.” (From left to right) James Nichol, co-founder and CEO of SnoPlanks; Ryan Holmes, co-founder and head of sales at SnoPlanks; Caitlin Colgin, president, SnoPlanks Academy; Ryan Henkel, COO and vice president of finance, SnoPlanks Academy; Jacob Smith, vice president of supply chain and operations, SnoPlanks Academy. The group spoke to more than 200 people at an event organized by the Oregon Outdoor Alliance in May, 2024 – photo by Haley Nelson. Business Matters | 9
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