This week, we say congratulations, thank you, and about time to Paul Maloney, who is officially retiring after starting here in December of 1973. Yes, you read that correctly… 1973. Before snowboarding. Before helmets were cool. Before half of us were born.

Over the years, Paul has worn many hats, and a few we didn’t even know we had. Snowsports Assistant Director, Skiing Services Director, Ski Patrol. COO, VP., Leader. Fixer of problems. The guy who somehow knew what was going on everywhere, and the one that will tell you what to do -no matter what department you worked in. All at once.

If you worked here long enough, you didn’t need an org chart, you just knew who he was. And that brings me to one of my favorite personal memories.

When I was an international J‑1 student working here back in 2007, Paul had a nickname among us: “Batman.” Not because he wore a cape (though honestly, you never knew), but because you never knew when he was going to show up. He was everywhere. One minute you thought you’re alone at a lift top house, the next, boom! -Paul.

Back then, iPods were a thing. We all had them. And technically, you couldn’t wear headphones while working the top of any lift -in our defense, working the top was boring. Warm, but boring! So we did what made sense at the time for any 20 year older: one earbud in, one ear out. But you had to stay sharp…because Batman could appear at any moment. To this day, I’m convinced Paul mastered teleportation.

Paul also had a special sense of humor. Dry, sarcastic, and always delivered with that look that made you wonder if he was joking or dead serious (usually both). He especially enjoyed messing with me by never getting my nationality right on purpose. I’m Peruvian. Paul knew this. And yet I was regularly Cuban. Or Guatemalan. Or “somewhere in Central America.” Never Peruvian. Ever. That’s Paul.

Jokes aside, what truly matters is the impact Paul has had on this place -I mean, it must have been significant to have a building named after you. He led with high standards, deep commitment, and a long‑term view that shaped who we are today. He cared about the mountain, the people, and doing things the right way.

A few years ago, Paul began passing responsibilities along, helping Jason Griffin and David Cammer step into their roles. And now, after a long transition toward retirement, Paul is officially sailing off into the sunset.

Paul, thank you for more than five decades of dedication, guidance, and perfectly timed sarcasm. Thank you for keeping us on our toes, keeping us safe, and caring more than you ever let on.

Congratulations on your retirement, Paul. Jiminy Peak will always carry your fingerprints. Whether you like it or not.

Sincerely, Luis.