Anyone interested in employment should send a resume and cover letter to info@omaharockgym.com.
Sarahjoy Allen
Owner / General Manager / Head Route Setter
I am a Nebraska native, graduated from UNL with an ME, and was an energy engineer. I worked for Schnackel Engineers, Kiewit Building Group, and Noresco, all the while developing a business plan around my extracurricular passion of rock climbing. I have always enjoyed problem solving and believe this attribute is the source of my obsession for climbing. Whether it be scaling multi-pitch rock formations outdoors or bouldering indoors with friends, all forms of climbing present physical and mental challenges, which are equally important to me.
As our gym’s general manager, head route setter, and lead instructor, it is my personal goal to make indoor climbing accessible to everyone interested. I enjoy teaching and working with others and have the skill set necessary to ensure their enjoyment as well. I look forward to serving Omaha’s outdoor community with a new indoor climbing gym experience.
Matt Prince
Operations Manager
I was born and raised in the Trenton NJ area and came to Approach from Outward Bound. Prior to climbing I worked in emergency services (Fire/EMS). I started climbing in the late 90’s with my favorite style being aid climbing. I primarily teach the more technical classes such as Gym to Crag and multi-pitch, but I also really enjoy working with folks who have anxiety and other disabilities
Kelly Vap
Marketing & Outreach Coordinator
I was born in Los Alamos, New Mexico; went to elementary school in Irvine, California; and have lived in Omaha, Nebraska ever since. Before coming to Approach, I worked as a Computer Programmer for 14 years. During that time, I became involved with Approach's community partner, Neighborhood Offshore. Years later the opportunity arose to work for both amazing companies simultaneously, and I couldn't pass it up. I am very proud to work for two locally & women-owned businesses who continually give back to the community.
Climbing Instructors & Coaches
Mark Powell
Shift Manager
Sarah Brester
Shift Manager
I've been climbing since May of 2017. I personally love the social aspect to climbing. Not only is it nice to get support from other individuals, but it's also nice to challenge yourself and push yourself to new limits. A few fun facts: my favorite color is blue, I have been painting for over 16 years, I can still pull some smooth moves on my roller skates, and I also have 2 of the coolest cat kids ever. Lastly, I own a small business called Bashies. We create custom designs for individuals looking for unique handmade goods.
Zachariah Johnson
Shift Manager
I grew up in Killeen, TX. It was there that I started climbing for the first time at a rugged and dusty rock gym called Boulders. My favorite style of climbing is bouldering.
Fun fact: I've recently quit martial arts after doing it for 7 years.
Zoe Hass
I’m a sophomore in high school who has been climbing for three years. Climbing has helped shape me to be who I am. The community, especially at Approach, is a loving and supporting one. Fun Fact: I am allergic to cats yet own three.
Jasper Gray
Victoria Killian
Noah Crawford
The first time I went rock climbing was at Approach when they opened in 2015. After that, I was hooked. I love climbing at Approach because of the positive community. Everyone here is so nice. Now, I work at Approach as an Instructor / Route Setter / Kid’s Coach. When I’m not working, you can usually find me on the MoonBoard.
Malaz Ebrahim
I fell in love with climbing when I was living in my home state, Minnesota. I moved to Omaha for grad school, and my passion for climbing persisted, leading me right to the Approach. My favorite type of climbing is outside and on the ropes, but what’s most important for me is sharing the experience with loved ones.
I work really well with people who are just getting into the sport and want help with efficiency and technique. I taught handfuls of intro classes at my former job. I want people to fall in love with climbing the way I have, and if I can help you with that, so awesome!
Aside from climbing, I immerse myself in writing: creative fiction and poetry. And I spend a copious amount of time with my dog. She is the best furry companion out there.
Anna Milton
I'm currently studying nursing at the University of Kansas (rock chalk!), but love working and climbing at Approach when I'm back in Omaha. Although I've lived all over the U.S., I call Nebraska home and enjoy running, exploring, and climbing whenever I can. I love bouldering and crack climbing in particular, but am always up for seeking out and sharing new experiences and activities with those around me. Climb on!
Mike Pavel
John Faist
Head Coach
I am a Competitive Team Coach/Personal Coach originally from Pensacola, Florida. I've been climbing for 3 years, but competing in some form for about 15. I got into climbing when I went to a gym on recommendation from a friend, and I bought a membership that day. My favorite style/terrain/hold type is Bouldering on 30-50 degrees on pinches.
Fun fact about me: I am in a band that plays in Omaha and Lincoln.
Route Setters
Steve Peterson
Mark Powell
Mike Pavel
David McMullen
Hometown: Bellevue, Nebraska.
I've been climbing for 2 years and a Route Setter for just under a year. My favorite style is definitely Bouldering. My favorite thing about Approach is the bond climbers share. From newbies to experts, we all want to improve, learn, and share experiences together.
Goal: V9 by the end of 2019
Zachariah Johnson
Colten Siemer
Graphic Designer
Gene Bailey