BOISE, Idaho — When Maddy Baldwin started working at Bogus Basin five years ago, she thought she would spend just one winter season as a lift operator before moving on.

Today, Baldwin is the resort's youngest and first female lift mechanic and the winner of a national award recognizing emerging young mechanics in the industry.

Baldwin, 23, won the 2025 Rise Up Challenge by Ski Area Management magazine, beating four other finalists from ski resorts across the country.

"I had no idea that five years ago, if you told me this is where I would be right now," Baldwin said. "I thought I was just going to work one season as a liftee."

The Rise Up Challenge spotlights young lift mechanics through video submissions showcasing their daily work. Baldwin's submission offered viewers a look at

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