Anthony Lopez is the guy that keeps the fun flowing at Montgomery Whitewater. The Raft Guide Operations Manager has multiple responsibilities, but near the top of the list is hiring good guides to help visitors successfully (and safely) navigate the excitement of whitewater rafting.
Here, he explains what he’s looking for and what any business owner or manager should be after when searching for public-facing employees.
What first got you interested in whitewater paddling?
I was an 18-year-old in Charlotte, NC and got a job at the U.S. National Whitewater Center. I fell in love with the sport, especially working with people as a guide.
What brought you to Montgomery Whitewater?
I had worked with Dave Hepp, Montgomery Whitewater CEO, in both Charlotte and Oklahoma City, and he reached out. This industry is kind of like a family. I’d learned and had so much fun building a career with this team that it was an easy choice to come be part of this new, even more advanced park.
What’s your impression of the park so far?
This is a world-class whitewater facility with state-of-the-art technology. Both channels are incredible, and I love how the competition channel has unique features and bends that paddlers will really enjoy.
What are your job responsibilities as Raft Operations Manager?
My responsibilities deal with all things rafting, including keeping up with the equipment, scheduling, training guides, managing guides, making sure the river is a fun and enjoyable experience by moving around the rapid blocs, the system that actually creates the whitewater effect.
What do you love most or find the most fulfilling about your work?
I really enjoy mentoring people through a really challenging job. As a raft guide, you have to not only keep everyone safe you are helping them have the most fun possible, while often coming face to face with real fear. You have to be a leader, and you’ll learn so much about yourself as you develop those skills.
How will Montgomery Whitewater benefit the community?
At the other parks, we’ve seen over time that people start to think of the park as their own backyard. They come just to get away for their own personal relaxation as well as coming to connect with friends and family, even if they aren’t going to get in the water. The events, the restaurant and just the sound of the whitewater are so appealing. This is going to be something people love as much as baseball or ASF.
How will the park benefit local businesses?
For one thing, I think it will make Montgomery more interesting to people that are considering relocating for a job. I think it’s also going to help generate more business opportunities as the traffic in and out of the park off of the interstate increases. That should spread into downtown and beyond as people realize they can spend more time in the city when they travel through.
When you’re hiring guides, what’s the No. 1 quality you are looking for?
Personality is everything for this job. You have to love working with people, be part coach and part cheerleader and have a good technical knowledge all at the same time.
What’s your top tip for others who hire people who will work with and/or heavily interact with customers?
Look for their capacity for empathy; it’s essential for working with customers because it comes down to human interaction.
Personal Matters:
- First impression of Montgomery: Montgomery is a close-knit community, with the benefits of a larger city, but the vibe is much more of a friendly, small town.
- Must-have work tool: My paddle; it’s my connection to the water.
- Outside of work: I enjoy rocket launches, listening to podcasts and hiking.
- What’s one thing you think folks should know about Montgomery Whitewater (that you think they don’t)? This is not a water park! You won’t find a lazy river or colorful slides here. Instead, you’ll find 120 acres of open green space with one of the most advanced professional sports venues in the country at its center. This place blends passive enjoyment of the outdoors and serious sportsmanship in a way that offers something to everyone of all ages and interests.
