Meet the Ross Lake Crew
At Ross Lake Resort, community isn’t just about sharing a workspace, it’s about sharing a life. It’s early mornings with coffee and good stories, lending a hand without being asked, and laughing through the kinds of mishaps that only happen when you’re living off the grid.
We may not be related by blood, but we’ve got all the signs of a true family: sibling rivalries, inside jokes, group chats, and late-night campfire confessions. From the seasoned pros who know every trail and trick, to the newcomers bringing fresh energy and a bit of chaos. Everyone adds something weird and wonderful to the mix.
And that’s exactly how we like it.
Andy Walker
Owner/President/Boat Captain
Don’t let the “biotech career” fool you! Andy has Ross Lake in his DNA. His family’s tradition began way back in 1949, and he’s been making the pilgrimage himself since 1982. When he bought the resort in 2016, it wasn’t just a business move; it was a full-blown love story with the lake. His mission is simple: keep the Ross Lake magic alive for everyone, whether you’ve been coming for decades or just stumbled upon it. Since then, Andy has gone from guest to gear guy to full-blown renaissance man of the docks, pro apparel model, radio installation master, attic whisperer, internet wizard, and yes, a captain ready to take you for a spin in the catamaran anytime. When he’s not running the show, you’ll find him with a fly rod in hand, swapping stories that are only sometimes about fish. Around here, his unofficial motto is: “Have I told you this story?!”
Baily Hollis
General Manager
Baily first joined us on the very first day of her summer break from college in 2008, answering a call for help with housekeeping, and she’s been part of the family ever since! With an incredible eye for detail and a heart full of community spirit, she’s grown with us over the years and now leads the charge as our General Manager. When she’s not keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes, Baily is either nose-deep in a book or tending to her ever-growing jungle of houseplants. Total book nerd, proud plant lady, and someone we’re so lucky to have at the helm!
Lucas Qualls
Operations Manager/Boat Captain/Mechanic
Back in 2005, Lucas filled in for a friend and planned to stick around for just a couple of weeks, luckily for us, we never let him leave. Now our go-to mechanic and master of all things fixable, we like to say that if Lucas can’t fix it, we’re officially in trouble. He also holds the speed record in the beloved Ross Lake Resort catamaran, and everyone gets a little more excited when they see him cruising up to the dock. When he’s not turning wrenches or captaining boats, Lucas is likely in his shop blowing glass, always with a pocket full of marbles, literally. You can usually find him and Kuba off exploring, tinkering, or cooking up their next great idea.
Candi Lee
Office Manager
Candi is a powerhouse, plain and simple. Since starting with us in 2018, she’s tackled every task with unmatched determination and has played a huge role in improving the way our office runs. Her upbeat personality makes every day brighter, and her strong work ethic sets the tone for the whole team. Outside of work, Candi finds her peace on the beach, whether she's paddle boarding or soaking up the sun. When she’s not at Ross Lake Resort, she’s likely working on home projects or spending quality time with her family and friends.
Alec Burchuk
Boat Captain
Alec first joined Ross Lake Resort in 2018, and from the start, he blew us away. With a calm, collected demeanor and plenty of energy to match, he tackles every task with quiet confidence and enthusiasm. A proud New Hampshire native (and one we may never give back), Alec brings a deep love for the outdoors into everything he does. An avid photographer, camper, snowboarder and an amazing cook. He’s always dreaming up his next wilderness adventure. We had a hunch he’d be a great fit when he first visited during the winter of 2017–18 with a friend then kept coming back every chance he got. Now a full-time, year-round member of the team, Alec has truly become part of the RLR family, and we couldn’t be happier to have him.
Kristina Grace
Office
Kristina (with a K!) is ready to make you smile and help with any questions about Ross Lake. Curious about the best places to explore? Her map skills are legendary, she’ll guide you to hidden fairy hideouts and secret bird action spots on the lake with enthusiasm and detail.
You’ll find her in the office or pitching in with housekeeping, always ready to lend a hand, work an extra day, share advice, or simply brighten your day. Her love for Yerba Maté is unhinged (keep her supplied & all is well in the world), and to Kristina, every dog she meets is the cutest one ever. One day, we hope to call her Captain Kristina, if we can keep her here long enough!
Tom and Carol Barnett
The Legends
How can you sum up the legends in one paragraph!?
There is so much we could say about how wonderful they are and there are probably a billion and a half fun amazing quirks we could share! So what we ARE going to say is how thankful we are for the time and love they have given us over the years and the continued support they continue to offer us today. We can never repay our gratitude… but we will also never actually let them retire either!
Resort Fur Babies
Ella Hollis-Qualls
Professional Shadow of Lucas
In loving memory Dec 2023
Lovingly known as Lucas’ shadow, Ella has been coming to Ross Lake since 2011 but became a full-time resident in 2015. She keeps a close eye on Lucas and only leaves his side when it’s rainy to sleep under the office desk with Baily. Her only curse in life is being so shy yet so fluffy that everyone wants to pet her (she is so fluffy!) Ella is currently a social media sensation; she is always getting her picture taken and she absolutely adores boat rides … sometimes it is hard to get her to get out of the boat!
Luna Hollis-Qualls
Professional Exterminator
The regal feline-in-residence at the resort docks, brings a touch of elegance to every sun-dappled boardwalk she graces. With sleek fur and eyes full of mystery, Luna can often be found perched in her favorite sunspot, overseeing dock activity with the poise of a seasoned captain. Equal parts mouser and muse, she keeps the area clear of pests with quiet efficiency while captivating guests and crew alike with her aloof charm. Though she may play hard to get, those lucky enough to earn a moment of her affection are rewarded with soft purrs and gentle headbutts. Luna is more than just a dockside companion, she’s a graceful guardian and beloved symbol of calm at the water’s edge.
Kuba Hollis-Qualls
Eager Greater
Kuba, the dockside sentinel of Ross Lake Resort, has been keeping a watchful (yet playful) eye on things since January 2020. Once a wide-eyed four-month-old pup with questionable manners and endless energy, he’s grown into his role as the resort’s unofficial guard dog. Though friendly at heart, Kuba takes his patrol duties seriously; he’ll clock you the moment you step on the dock, giving off just enough “security detail” energy to keep things interesting. But don’t be fooled, underneath that stoic stance is a dog who lives for boat rides, belly rubs (on his terms), and dramatic naps sprawled out in the office doorway. Whether he’s stealthily eyeing your sandwich or “supervising” the crew from his favorite spot, Kuba is equal parts protector and comic relief, a loyal fixture who keeps the dock safe and spirits high.
Seasonal Crew
Mara
Housekeeper
With serious black cat energy and a spark of sass, Mara brings personality and skill to everything she does. Whether she’s whipping up something delicious, diving into a book, or geeking out over a movie, she’s always 100% herself and we love her for it. A sharp conversationalist, a welcoming presence, and a solid worker through and through, Mara keeps things interesting in all the best ways.
Anna
Truck Driver/Dockhand
Anna joined the team in 2024 as a truck driver and has been absolutely killing it ever since. Known for her upbeat attitude, she brings great energy wherever she goes. When she’s not behind the wheel, you might catch her blasting K-pop or out on the lake chasing waves. She’s currently learning to surf and doesn’t shy away from a windy day. A friend to many and a positive force on the crew, Anna is always ready to lend a hand or share a laugh.
Brady
Truck Driver/Dockhand
Brady has been coming to the resort since 2013 and is now excited to be part of the team! A former college rugby player with a passion for the outdoors, he’s currently attending Western Washington University. When he's not out fishing, hiking, or exploring, you’ll probably find him jamming with his band. Brady brings great energy, a team-player attitude, and a love for connecting with people, whether on the field, on the water, or around the campfire.
Gabby
Housekeeper
Gabby graduated from the University of Michigan with a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science and Sustainability. A former college cheerleader, she brings high energy, team spirit, and a positive attitude to everything she does. In her free time, Gabby loves connecting with nature and practicing yoga. Whether she’s tackling a project or helping out guests, she knows how to rally a team and get the job done with a smile!
Rheya
Housekeeper
Rheya attended Penn State University and has called many places across the U.S. home, bringing a unique and open-minded perspective to everything she does. When she’s not helping create a clean and cozy space for guests, you’ll likely find her enjoying drum circles, connecting with friends, or simply soaking in the moment. With her calm, welcoming presence and peaceful energy, Rheya brings a little extra zen and love wherever she goes.
John
Boat Captain
John joined us from Lake Powell in 2025, where he worked as a seasoned boat captain. A true jack of all trades, he's a calm and capable problem-solver who knows how to get the job done quickly and efficiently. We're lucky to have him on board for the 2025 season! When he's not working, you’ll find him fishing or whipping up something delicious for himself and his wife, Tiffany.
Tiffany
Office
Tiffany came to us from Lake Powell in 2025 and brings a whirlwind of joy and energy to the office. With her eccentric charm, contagious laugh, and wonderfully goofy spirit, she keeps everyone smiling while keeping things on track. When she's not working her magic at the desk, you'll find her crocheting quirky creations, diving into a good book, or scheming up her next whimsical weekend getaway.
Byron
Boat Captain
Byron joined us for the 2025 season and quickly became a standout on the team. Once he came out of his shell, we discovered a hilarious comedian hiding behind his shyness. Now we can’t imagine the crew without his quick wit and great spirit. His knowledge and skills are a huge asset to us every day. When he’s off the clock, you’ll likely find him racing motorcycles or wrenching away on one of his many project cars.
Nicole
Truck Driver/Dockhand
Nicole joined our crew mid-season in 2025 and immediately jumped in with enthusiasm and skill, quickly becoming a valued team member. Her positive attitude, adaptability, and strong work ethic made a noticeable impact right away. Outside of work, Nicole enjoys swimming, biking, and reading while walking, a true multitasker at heart. She is a proud graduate of the University of California, Santa Barbara, and brings the same energy and curiosity to our team that she carried through her studies and personal interests.
Zohar
Housekeeping
Zohar joined the team mid-season in 2025 and fit right in, bringing a great sense of humor and a natural ability to connect with everyone. Always ready with a good joke, he keeps the crew laughing while still getting the job done. Off the clock, Zohar enjoys swimming and playing the drums, combining his love for both rhythm and the water. He’s also a proud graduate of the University of California, Santa Barbara, and brings a fun, energetic vibe to everything he does.
Matt
Truck Driver/Dockhand
Matt joined the team mid-season in 2024, and it instantly felt like he’d been part of the crew forever. As a truck driver and dock hand, he brings high energy, a laid-back island-guy attitude, and a willingness to jump into any task…literally. He often puts his diving skills to use helping with resort needs, and outside of work, he loves to dive for fun, cook, and spend movie nights with friends. His positive spirit and can-do energy make him an unforgettable part of the team.
Aydee
Office
Aydee joined the Ross Lake office in 2024 and has been keeping us on track ever since! With a sharp eye for detail and a talent for turning chaos into order, she keeps things running smoothly behind the scenes. Outside of work, she’s all about adventure—whether it’s playing guitar, rock climbing, or chasing her next adrenaline rush. We're lucky to have her mix of focus and fun on the team!
Hunter
Dockhand
Hunter has been coming to the resort since he was born, so it’s safe to say it’s in his blood! Now a student at Western Washington University, he loves all things outdoors, quality time with family, and hanging out with his two pups, Chilli and Piper. Whether he’s helping out around the resort or sharing a laugh with guests, Hunter brings an easygoing, little brother vibe that makes everyone feel right at home.
Jared
Remote Staff
Jared, born and raised in a small farming community in Illinois, brings a strong work ethic and a healthy dose of Midwestern charm to the team. While he’s working remotely this year, he’s no stranger to on-site life and still holds the spot for top seller of Otter Pops in one season. In his free time, Jared coaches youth basketball, where he’s learned that herding kids isn’t much different from herding hummingbirds. Speaking of which, he's an avid hummingbird watcher who not only names his feathered friends but also makes their food from scratch (because store-bought nectar is so last season). A devoted family man, Jared spends as much time as possible with his loved ones and has a hard time turning down an adventure, whether it’s a spontaneous road trip or something totally off the wall, if it sounds fun, he’s in!
Meghan
Remote Staff
Meghan grew up in Wisconsin, where her love for the outdoors was sparked on family trips to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. She went on to spend nearly a decade working for the National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service in the North Cascades and the remote village of Stehekin. Places so off-grid they make cell service sound like science fiction. Clearly drawn to wild, road-inaccessible corners of the map, Meghan now works as one of our dedicated remote staff. When she’s not working, you’ll likely find her somewhere deep in the backcountry, living that vagabond lifestyle and thriving off the grid. A true generalist, Meghan brings a wide range of knowledge to the team, along with a calm, can-do attitude. If you pull up to her campsite, there will be sparks, snacks & campfire stories for sure.
