Eli grew up in Chattanooga, TN but really found home in Colorado when he attended CTA for his junior and senior years. There he found a passion in rock climbing and a love for the outdoors. After graduating from CTA, Eli attended Fort Lewis College, studying adventure education. Knowing he wanted to give back by helping those who are struggling, Eli decided to work as a field guide at a wilderness therapy program in Utah after college. During this time, Eli grew to love the desert even more than the mountains, but always longed to be back in Durango. Now Eli is excited to be a mentor to the next generation of CTA students and help them foster a passion for rock climbing.