Shannon Buhler: BOEC’s Newest Board Member

For Shannon Buhler, Vice President and General Manager of Keystone Ski Resort and the BOEC’s newest board member, the ski industry isn’t just a career—it’s a legacy. Growing up with her father, John Buhler,  retired Vice President and COO of Breckenridge Ski Resort and former BOEC board member, Shannon often says the ski industry is “in her blood.” With a deep passion for outdoor recreation and a love for leadership, she’s dedicated to creating exceptional experiences for employees and guests alike—all while enjoying the rare privilege of skiing every day.

Shannon’s lifelong connection to the ski industry and her proximity to the BOEC have given her a unique perspective on the organization’s impact, both on individuals and the community. She explains,

“Having grown up in Breckenridge, Colorado I have witnessed from a young age the opportunities that the BOEC has provided throughout many years. When I last worked at Breckenridge Ski Resort I worked out of the Village base area right next to the BOEC location, which allowed me the opportunity to see so many people having fun, being inspired and experiencing the slopes of Breckenridge. What I also witnessed was the passion of the staff and volunteers at the BOEC and their commitment to providing meaningful and educational experiences.” 

Born in Southern California, Shannon’s family eventually moved to Breckenridge, Colorado, the place she considers to be her hometown. She attended Colorado Mesa University, earning a degree in Sports Medicine, and eventually returned to Breckenridge. During high school and after college, Shannon worked at both a retail store in Breckenridge, as well as for Breckenridge Ski Resort in Ski School and Product Sales and Services (PSS).

Shannon’s career in the ski industry has taken her across the United States, with each role building on her expertise and leadership. She advanced from Breckenridge Ski Resort to Vail Mountain, where she served as a PSS Manager for two years. She then moved to Keystone, taking on the role of Senior Manager of PSS for another two years. In 2020, Shannon became the General Manager of Snow Creek Resort in Missouri. 

Following her time at Snow Creek, she joined Northstar California as the Senior Director of Mountain Operations. By 2023, she was appointed Vice President and General Manager of Stowe Mountain Resort in Vermont. Just a year later, Shannon returned to her roots in Summit County as the Vice President and General Manager of Keystone Ski Resort, reconnecting with the community she has always called home.

Shortly after her return to Colorado, Shannon was invited to join the BOEC board, a position that her father had recently retired from. She shares, “I am thrilled to be joining the BOEC board. Throughout my career I have been incredibly passionate around DEI and supporting all people and providing everyone with opportunities to experience the outdoor sports industry. “

Throughout her career, Shannon has faced many challenges, though none stand out as the single greatest. Instead, she views the decisions her family has made to relocate across the country for her career as some of the most significant moments, for which she is immensely grateful for her wife’s support.

Shannon credits her parents as major inspirations in her life. Her mother, the former Superintendent of the Summit County school district, demonstrated unwavering dedication to the community, staff, and students. Her father, a respected leader at both Breckenridge and Keystone ski resorts, exemplified the importance of connecting with staff and supporting their needs.

As someone who values action and productivity, Shannon frequently reminds herself to slow down and listen intentionally, focusing on patience, an area where she continues to grow. She defines success by the accomplishments and well-being of her team and company. Supporting the team at Keystone and ensuring every individual feels valued and empowered is at the heart of her leadership philosophy.

Throughout her work in the ski industry, Shannon has valued inclusivity and the importance of snow sports for everyone. She explains it this way,

“For Keystone and Breckenridge it is incredible to be able to offer adaptive lessons to guests who are within our community and visit us from other destinations.  Snow sports should be about inclusion and welcoming everyone into our sport.  Throughout our resorts and communities we want to welcome everyone and that means providing opportunities for all to experience our resorts.”

In her free time, Shannon prioritizes spending time with her family, which includes her wife and two young daughters. Whether skiing, hiking, swimming, or simply playing at home, family time is always her focus. A lifelong athlete, Shannon has always enjoyed trying new sports. In high school, she decided to forgo track and field, picking up a tennis racket for the first time and quickly falling in love with the sport.

Looking ahead, Shannon’s long-term goal is to continue leading within Vail Resorts until retirement. While she does not know what her next role may be, her focus is on being the best leader she can be and supporting her teams, communities, and the company. She takes great pride and joy in the work she does every day.