Industry News
Andrew J. Gast is the new President and General Manager of Eldora Mountain Resort beginning February 1, 2026. Serving as the General Manager at Mt. Ashland in Oregon, Gast distinguished himself through effective leadership of a community-focused ski area, earning the role at Eldora thanks to a reputation for reliable operations and ability to build public trust. Gast will continue Eldora’s long track record of providing an exceptional guest experience in the Front Range.
Mount Ashland paused its ski operations on December 31, 2025, due to a lack of snow. Following the early closure, Gast, who has been the General Manager of the resort since 2021, announced his resignation in the pursuit of another job opportunity.
“Eldora holds a special place in Colorado’s ski landscape because it’s both a destination and a true community mountain, and Andrew understands what that responsibility means,” POWDR CEO Justin Sibley said. “We’re excited to welcome him to the team, and we’re confident his operational discipline and people-first approach will be instrumental as we continue to deliver a high-quality experience for our guests while supporting the incredible Eldora staff and surrounding communities.”
Sibley continued, “I would also like to express my appreciation to Brian Dobias, who has been the Interim General Manager for the past several months. He has been an outstanding leader for the team and has effectively supported Eldora throughout the summer and into the kickoff of this season.”
Gast most recently served as General Manager of Mt. Ashland Ski Area in Oregon since 2022, where he led high-volume day operations as well as set long-term strategy, while working closely with the local community and U.S. Forest Service. At Mt. Ashland, Gast helped deliver capital improvements, including a new chairlift, the first there in more than 35 years, along with trail work aimed at better flow and less crowding.
Gast’s resume also includes leadership roles at Antelope Butte Mountain Recreation Area in Shell, WY; Whitefish Mountain Resort in Whitefish, MT; Cataloochee Ski Area in Maggie Valley, NC; and Sky Valley Ski Area in Sky Valley, GA.
“I believe ski areas are public squares as much as they are businesses,” Andrew Gast said. “When they run well, families spend time together, local kids learn to love winter sports, and the town feels proud. I’d like to help Eldora make the most of this moment–steady hands-on busy days, careful growth the community can cheer for, and finances that keep the lifts spinning.” Gast will be relocating to Nederland and begin at Eldora on February 1, 2026.
Eldora’s previous General Manager, Brent Tregaskis, announced his retirement in May 2025. POWDR CFO, Brian Dobias, has been serving as interim-GM for the past 7 months. In 2024, POWDR announced it would sell Eldora; the company continues to make progress towards that goal with the town of Nederland.
