We are thrilled to welcome Karrie Blittersdorf to the SheJumps Board of Directors!
Karrie was born and raised in Vermont on a large horse farm, where horses played a significant role in her early life. However, some of her fondest memories involve hiking with her family—a cherished time when they could all come together and share experiences amid their busy farm life. After college, where she studied Air Traffic Control, Karrie began her career with Burton Snowboards and completely fell in love with snowboarding. This pivotal moment helped her realize she was in the right place career-wise, living her passion every day.
Karrie later worked at The North Face, Dakine, a creative agency, and eventually returned to Burton Snowboards, where it all began. As a Product Line Merchandiser, she focuses on the outerwear and apparel categories (soft goods) to ensure that consumers have the best possible day on the snow. Quality products and gear are incredibly important to ensure participants not only get outside but also stay protected from the elements to maximize their enjoyment outdoors. With this focus, Karrie takes great pride in creating quality, sustainable products that last.
She is thrilled to join the incredible members of the board at SheJumps to continue learning, seeing the world from various perspectives, and fostering engagement and participation in the outdoors through transformative experiences that can truly change lives.
Q: Place of work, title, location.
A: Burton Snowboards, Global Product Line Merchandiser ( Softgoods).
Q: Why did you join SheJumps as a board member?
A: I joined SheJumps as a board member because finding community in the outdoors has been one of the most impactful things in my life, and providing opportunities for women and girls to do the same is incredibly important to me. I was lucky to start working in the outdoor industry immediately after college, but that transition honestly scary and intimidating as I navigated this new world and social structure - feeling like an outsider, especially as a woman. It was the people who took my hand and made me feel included, respected, and seen who opened my eyes to this lifestyle I've continued to call my own. A lifestyle I wouldn't trade in for the world. I love and stand by SheJumps mission, and I’m excited to be a part of such an incredible organization that increases participation and inclusivity in the outdoors. The same helping hand I received so many years ago.
Q: What goal of the SheJumps Strategic Plan is the most important to you?
A: I feel strongly about each of the goals within the SheJumps Strategic Plan, but the one that really stands out to me is the broadening of scope to include Leadership and Wellness.
Leadership development is such an important tool for women and girls and is generally lacking within the outdoor space. Elevating women in addition to reducing barriers is a huge step in the right direction.
Q: What do you hope to contribute to the SheJumps Board of Directors?
A: I hope to contribute strong connections and insights within the outdoor industry. I believe that women working together can change the world.
Now, it’s time for the lightning round:
Q: Outdoor activity of choice (pick one, two if you must)?
A: Snowboarding & Mountain Biking (but that was hard to narrow to two!)
Q: Who inspires you to go outside and why?
A: My mental health. If I’m feeling down or not myself, I immediately feel better being outside. It’s truly my therapy.
Q: Where is your favorite place to go outside or on an adventure?
A: I’m a mountain girl through and through. I love being near water too, especially lakes and rivers – but you’ll usually find me in the mountains. I have my favorite places within VT, MT, and OR but I also love exploring new places. I’m always down for a road trip!
Q: How has the outdoors benefited your health and overall physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing?
A: The outdoors benefits me in mind, body, spirit. Like my dog, my anxiety increases when I don’t have the time to get outside. We both need that connection to nature and the physical activity to feel grounded. The feeling of accomplishment after a big hike or mountain bike ride. I enjoy my time alone in the outdoors, where I really feel the impacts of mindfulness and shifts in perception – but I also love the feeling of community within the outdoors. Sharing a beautiful view with a loved one, the outdoors really brings us all together.
Thanks, Karrie!
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