Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Laurel Blessley

Big Sky

Summary

Dynamic Lift Maintenance Director with extensive experience at Big Sky Resort, leading a team of 53 to ensure operational excellence and safety compliance. Expert in aerial and surface lift maintenance, project execution, and technical troubleshooting, driving reliability and performance improvements across 39 lift systems. Proven ability to manage budgets and foster team collaboration.

Overview

23
23
years of professional experience

Work History

Lift Maintenance Director

Big Sky Resort
Big Sky
05.2022 - Current
  • Direct and oversee the maintenance and operational integrity of 39 aerial and surface lifts, including high-speed detachable, fixed-grip, and surface systems, in one of North America's largest ski resorts.
  • Lead, train, and manage a team of 53 lift maintenance personnel, including mechanics, electricians, and supervisors, ensuring adherence to strict safety, compliance, and performance standards.
  • Manage departmental budgeting, capital improvements, spare parts inventory, and vendor relationships to maintain the reliability and uptime of all lift systems.

Lift Maintenance Manager

Big Sky Resort
Big Sky
08.2021 - 05.2022
  • Managed day-to-day maintenance operations for 39 aerial and surface lifts, ensuring safe, reliable performance in alignment with ANSI B77.1 standards, and manufacturer guidelines.
  • Supervised and supported a team of over 35 lift maintenance personnel, providing hands-on leadership, technical guidance, and safety oversight.
  • Maintained detailed maintenance records, inspection reports, and compliance documentation for internal and regulatory audits.
  • Assisted with lift modernization projects, technical training programs, and the development of standard operating procedures.

Lift Maintenance Foreman

Big Sky Resort
Big Sky
09.2016 - 08.2021
  • Provided frontline leadership and technical expertise for the maintenance of 39 aerial and surface lifts, focusing on system reliability, safety, and compliance with ANSI B77.1 standards.
  • Played a key role in major lift projects, including assembly, disassembly, haul rope splicing/replacement, Bull Wheel bearing replacement and Sheave assembly rebuilds.
  • Assisted with preventive and corrective maintenance, inspections, and documentation, while supporting long-term improvements to lift infrastructure.
  • Served as a go-to resource for troubleshooting mechanical and electrical issues in high-pressure operational environments.

Lift Mechanic/Crew Lead

Big Sky Resort
Big Sky
12.2002 - 09.2016
  • Performed all aspects of preventive and corrective maintenance on assigned aerial and surface lifts, ensuring safety, reliability, and operational readiness in accordance with ANSI B77.1 standards.
  • Served as lead technician for a dedicated group of lifts, coordinating daily maintenance tasks, troubleshooting, and seasonal projects with minimal supervision.
  • Conducted routine inspections and detailed documentation for maintenance records and compliance purposes.
  • Conducted routine inspections and detailed documentation for maintenance records and compliance purposes.
  • Worked closely with electricians, operators, and supervisors to ensure smooth lift operations and efficient response to technical issues.
  • Participated in major lift projects, including tower work, haul rope adjustments, and terminal rebuilds.

Education

AWS Certified - Welding

R.E.A.D.I Workforce Training
Belgrade, MT

Skills

  • Aerial and surface lift maintenance
  • Team leadership and management
  • Project execution and rigging
  • Preventive and corrective maintenance
  • Technical troubleshooting and diagnostics
  • Regulatory compliance (ANSI B771)

Timeline

Lift Maintenance Director

Big Sky Resort
05.2022 - Current

Lift Maintenance Manager

Big Sky Resort
08.2021 - 05.2022

Lift Maintenance Foreman

Big Sky Resort
09.2016 - 08.2021

Lift Mechanic/Crew Lead

Big Sky Resort
12.2002 - 09.2016

AWS Certified - Welding

R.E.A.D.I Workforce Training
Laurel Blessley