Thad Rice

Leadership, much like sailing, requires balance—between control and flexibility, strength and humility. My years on the water revealed that being “steady at the helm” isn’t just about steering through calm seas; it’s about navigating uncertainty with purpose and poise. The ocean, unpredictable and vast, mirrors the challenges leaders face daily: shifting winds, unseen obstacles , and moments that test judgment and resolve. When you’re the one at the wheel, every decision matters. A leader, like a captain, must trust both the instruments and the instincts that guide them. Leadership at sea taught me that authority is not granted by position alone—it’s earned through consistency, courage, and an unwavering commitment to those who depend on you. Trust as the Crew’s Foundation A ship cannot sail without trust. The captain must trust the crew, and the crew must trust the captain. This confidence is the glue that holds a team together when the sea turns wild. It’s not built overnight but thr...

Where It All Began I didn’t set out to become a special needs ski instructor . I was just a ski bum chasing powder days, working odd jobs to stay close to the mountains. Then one winter, a friend asked if I’d volunteer with an adaptive ski program. I figured it would be a nice thing to do for a weekend. That weekend turned into a calling. The first time I helped a student with Down syndrome glide down the beginner slope, his laughter echoed louder than the wind. It wasn’t about speed or skill—it was pure, unfiltered joy. In that moment, I realized skiing could be a language of freedom for anyone, regardless of ability. The Art of Meeting People Where They Are Every student who steps onto the snow brings a different story. Some come with physical disabilities, others with cognitive or emotional challenges. No two lessons ever look the same. My job isn’t to force a student into a mold—it’s to understand who they are and how they move through the world. One of my students, Olivia, has a...

For many, skiing is a thrilling winter sport that tests balance, strength, and courage. But for some, especially individuals with special needs, it can feel intimidating, even impossible. Enter the world of compassionate instructors who see beyond limitations and focus on possibilities. Among them is Sarah Thompson, a dedicated ski instructor whose career has been defined not just by technique but by empathy, patience, and an unwavering commitment to inclusion. Sarah’s journey began like many others in the snowy peaks of Vermont, mastering the basics of skiing as a child. Yet, her path took a profound turn when she volunteered for a local ski program for children with disabilities. The experience was eye-opening. She realized that her love for skiing could become a conduit for empowerment, confidence, and joy for those often sidelined in mainstream sports. From that moment, she knew her purpose extended beyond personal achievement—it was about helping others conquer fear and discover ...

Being a private pilot isn’t just about flying planes; it’s about finding a more profound sense of purpose, freedom, and fulfillment in the skies. For many, flying represents more than a passion or a hobby—it becomes a means of exploring life in a way few others experience. Private pilots often speak of the sense of liberation they feel when they’re airborne, the discipline it requires, and the sense of connection to something greater than themselves. For those who understand the rhythm of the cockpit and the sky, aviation becomes a metaphor for personal growth , overcoming fears, and pursuing dreams. The Call to the Skies: A Unique Journey The journey to becoming a private pilot can begin in many ways. For some, it’s a lifelong dream, inspired by childhood memories of watching planes soar through the clouds. For others, it’s an impulse or a shift in life circumstances that leads them to take to the skies. Regardless of how it starts, one thing remains certain: the path to becoming a pr...