What do you want people to know about your small business?
“I’ve always enjoyed snow and grew up skiing. When I learned that there were people studying snow, it was that aha moment that I could combine my passions with a career, leading me to a doctorate program. Our company provides technology and consulting services for natural hazard monitoring, specializing in avalanche monitoring, web apps and weather data management.
Our technology was first commercialized in 2020 and since then, we’ve expanded our services across the Intermountain West, Alaska and even New Zealand. We also support the National Avalanche Center, which oversees all Forest Service avalanche centers in the country and provides avalanche forecast products used by millions of people annually.
We are one of three companies in the world that use infrasound monitoring to detect natural hazards and we’ve made a lot of progress in a short time. The growth that we have seen in the past few years far outpaced my initial thoughts and the interest doesn’t seem to be slowing down.”
How does your avalanche infrasound system work and what makes it unique?
“Infrasound refers to sound waves with frequencies below the threshold of human hearing which can travel vast distances. It’s created by natural sources such as avalanches, volcanoes, fire and tornadoes. Our sensors detect atmospheric pressure changes caused by avalanches moving downslope and can track avalanche location and velocity in near real time.
Infrasound systems can monitor a larger area than radar, which requires line of sight to avalanche paths. Infrasound enables us to detect avalanches in areas that may not be visible to observers due to nighttime or stormy conditions.”
You’re a skier and outdoor enthusiast. Do you have any backcountry safety tips?
“I recommend taking an avalanche class to understand avalanche hazard assessment, how to travel safely in avalanche terrain and rescue techniques. Check the avalanche forecasts at your local avalanche center prior to heading out. Some of my best days in the backcountry are the mellow, low angle powder days — not every day has to be a remake of a ski movie.”
What advice do you have for other small business owners?
“Seek out a coach or mentor early on. I worked with the Idaho SBDC and they provided many helpful, free resources. All business owners should leverage these resources and guidance that can provide a helpful outside perspective from coaches that have been entrepreneurs themselves.”
Why did you choose to work with Zions Bank and how has it helped your small business?
“When we interviewed banks to work with, Zions Bank was the most appealing because they showed great interest in our business and the challenges we faced. Since working with Zions Bank, we’ve used a line of credit to purchase hardware and strengthen our company’s financial position. We also appreciate our Zions banker, who has proactively helped us identify valuable resources to support our growth.”
Looking for a bank that’s invested in your future and can help you reach your financial goals? Zions Bank’s team of relationship managers can provide small business success strategies as well as funding options, including U.S. Small Business Administration loans. Visit a local Zions Bank branch to learn more.
