Urban Kayaks: Land Staff; Water Staff; Manager(1 Year); Staff Photographer
Urban Kayaks
Greater Chicago Area
Beginning halfway through Urban Kayaks' Second year of operation, in July of 2014 Nathan began working as a Land staff contributor; a position that required consistent direct customer communication, Potential Customer Interaction, intensive physical labour, teamwork and communication, in addition to taking safety precautions when transporting Kayaks the 45-yard distance from their locks. Following intense safety training - Nathan was granted Water Staff responsibilities, to supplement the already established Land Staff contributions. Urban Kayaks' Water Staff Unit will experience roughly 45-60 capsizes in a given Operational Season; this is on Chicago River's main branch with massive barges, tour boats, municipal boats, as well as jet-skis, Motorboats of all sizes, and the occasional Stand Up Paddler. Needless to say, the entire main branch of the Chicago River is referred to as a High Traffic Area, and capsizes are not treated lightly. Nathan has personally performed roughly 28 such rescues- referred to as T-Rescues- under high intensity situations. Strict, firm, but respectful commands are used to direct Customers into a safe space before the Capsized Kayak is to be emptied of the water. Nathan clocked a Staff Record for an unmanned T-Rescue and takes pride in his ability to act under high pressure situations. In Nathan's third year with the Business, provided conditions for an opportunity, Urban Kayaks Ownership and Management decided to promote Nathan to Manager of the China Town Location, in Ping Tom Park. Nathan led his team of 3, himself and two others, on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
