Luke Dunbar

Youth development and education-focused professional with experience leading programs for children and adolescents in classroom, recreation, and community settings across the U.S. and Latin America. Fluent in Spanish, with a strong background in designing and facilitating engaging, inclusive learning experiences that build life skills, confidence, and leadership in youth. Experienced in collaborating with schools, municipal programs, and families to support positive youth engagement and well-being.

Raft Guide - Browns Canyon Rafting - Buena Vista, Colorado

(2025-05)

• Led and safely guided diverse groups through Class III–IV whitewater on the Arkansas River, emphasizing risk management and emergency response.
• Conducted pre‑trip safety briefings, taught paddling and positioning skills, and adapted instruction for all ages, abilities, and comfort levels.
• Maintained above‑par safety standards, made quick decisions in high‑stress situations, and performed swimmer and throw‑bag rescues as needed.
• Built strong group dynamics and teamwork skills by communicating clearly, encouraging participation, and fostering a positive, inclusive learning environment on the river.
• Maintained and inspected paddling and safety equipment (PFDs, helmets, rafts, paddles), ensuring reliable gear and compliance with safety protocols.

Youth Program Coach & Front Desk Associate - Whetstone Climbing - Fort Collins, Colorado

(2025-10 - 2025-05)

• Instruct youth climbers (ages 6-18) in climbing fundamentals, safety protocols, knot-tying, and belay techniques across Prep School, Recreational Team, and competitive programming.
• Facilitate group climbing sessions covering problem-solving skills, climbing commands, team-building activities, and safety checks for 5-20 participants per class.
• Model and reinforce positive behavior, goal-setting, and resilience in a supportive, inclusive environment.
• Promote youth programs and schedule participants for classes, clinics, competitions, and special events.
• Communicate regularly with parents and guardians about youth progress, goals, and upcoming opportunities.

Cave Tour Guide - Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park - Glenwood Springs, Colorado

(2022-06 - 2025-05)

• Led guided tours for diverse groups, including many school and youth groups, providing engaging commentary on history, geology, and local ecology.
• Adapted communication and activities to different age groups (children, teens, families) to maintain safety and participation.
• Managed group safety in dynamic environments, using clear instructions and checks to minimize risk.

Lifeguard - Rifle Metro Pool - Rifle, Colorado

(2020-06 - 2020-08)

• Supervised children, teens, and families in a high-traffic aquatic environment, enforcing safety rules and preventing risky behavior.
• Responded calmly to emergencies and minor injuries, applying First Aid/WFA and communicating clearly with youth and parents.
• Taught or assisted with basic water safety instruction for children, promoting confidence and respect for safe recreation.

Bartender/Server - The Beer Garden - Surfers Paradise, QLD, Australia

(2025-05 - 2025-09)

• Provided high-quality service in a fast-paced, international tourism environment in Australia, building strong cross-cultural communication skills.
• Collaborated with a diverse team to maintain a welcoming, safe, and inclusive atmosphere for guests.

Retail Associate - Summit Canyon Mountaineering - Glenwood Springs, Colorado

(2022-01 - 2024-08)

• Advised customers, including families and youth, on appropriate outdoor gear, emphasizing safety, accessibility, and confidence in outdoor activities.
• Maintained store organization and inventory to support a positive, educational shopping experience.

B.A. - Spanish, TEFL certification - Colorado State University (2026-05)

Linguistics, literature, and culture - Universidad del País Vasco (2025-09 - 2025-12)

Language, literature, politics, and social justice in Latin America - Universidad Andres Bello (2025-03 - 2025-05)