Alex Davenport » Adaptive DECL Team

The Adaptive DECL (Division Education and Clinic Leader) team is a group of highly trained instructors who are responsible for running the various Adaptive clinics and assessments that the Division offers.

Alex Davenport

Adaptive DECL

Biography

How did you get your start in this career field? I was convinced by a high school friend to work at THE Arizona Snowbowl for a free season pass while attending college at Northern Arizona University.

What inspired you to pursue the career you have today? My inspiration for becoming a career instructor came from a combination of my love for learning and my desire to make a positive impact on others. Early in my career, I had a few incredible mentors who not only taught me how to be an effective educator, but showed me the importance of patience, encouragement and dedication. Their influence sparked my passion for education and motivated me to want to give back in the same way. As an instructor, I have the opportunity to inspire, guide and support students in discovering their potential and achieving their goals – on and off the snow.

What’s something you’ve always wanted to try but haven’t yet? I want to take a true stab at playing guitar. I don’t have a musical bone in my body, but I want to give it a shot!

What surprised you most about working in this industry? What surprised me the most about working in this industry is how much I’ve learned from my students. While I expected to be the one imparting knowledge, I quickly realized that teaching is a two-way street. My students continually challenge me to see things from new perspectives, adapt my teaching methods, and stay curious. Their unique insights, questions, and experiences have enriched my own understanding of skiing and riding and have made me a more reflective and empathetic educator. Teaching snowsports is not just about delivering content, but about growing together as a learning community.

What lesson are you most grateful for learning? Understanding who you are teaching is much more important than what you are teaching.

Please list your hidden talent(s): 1) Snooze Button Ninja – In complete darkness and without fully waking up, I have mastered the art of hitting the snooze button on my alarm. 2) Remote control Finder Extraordinaire – My 1 year old has a funny habit of hiding the TV remote. Couch cushions are for amateurs… have you ever found your remote in an outdoor flower pot? I have!