By: Region X GAC RVC, Tracey Jumper
Imagine this: amidst the intense journey of my directorial career, I embarked on the most rewarding yet punishing challenge—summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro. Yes, you heard that right. I was chasing a different kind of 'professional peak'! My previous forays into the wild were limited to a series of grueling day hikes atop California mountains in the months leading up to this expedition. But here I was, about to spend nine days conquering Africa's highest peak. We traversed extreme conditions, from steamy rainforests to stark mountain tundra, and finally, the breath-stealing, thin-aired heights that defy the cruising altitude of commercial jets, almost two miles higher at 19,300'. And who was there? Me--Tracey Jumper, representing ASHRAE Region X, at the top of the world.
When I announced my climb, I was met with a mix of reactions—some said it was the "easy" one among the seven summits. Former ASHRAE President Mick Schwedler encouraging words, “You’ll do it. Whatever you do—don’t quit,” rang in my ears, especially with the tales of others who had attempted and failed. Armed with his counsel, inspiring conversations during my lecture travels with fellow outdoorsmen from Region X, Northern Nevada, ASHRAE Southern California Chapter, Utah Chapter ASHRAE, Anthracite ASHRAE Chapter, ASHRAE Lehigh Valley Chapter, ASHRAE PERU CHAPTER, ASHRAE Hawaii Chapter, ASHRAE South Brazil Chapter, ASHRAE Central Arizona Chapter, and ASHRAE Brasil Chapter …and a few impactful quotes scribbled in my trustee mountain journal here, I was determined to witness the glaciers before climate change rendered them a memory.
Ahead of the trip, our route hit a snag when the Tanzanian government closed off paths due to increased rockfalls—a sharp reminder of the climate crisis we battle. This meant an additional 20-mile detour, testing our physical and mental limits. By Day 4, my body was fighting back against the altitude, leaving me violently ill and questioning my ability to continue. Thankfully, our team of 37 dedicated guides and porters were there every step of the way, their expertise and support proving invaluable in navigating the extended journey. The ascent would have been unattainable without the unwavering support and expertise of the Kiliwarrior team. Additionally, the fear of not reaching the summit propelled me forward, exemplifying the extraordinary strength of mind over matter.
The twelve hour summit day kicked off at 3 am. The mountain's top greeted us with loose scree, where every step up meant two steps back—a perfect metaphor for life's biggest achievements. As we trekked, our guides' unyielding support kept us going, despite the sight of fellow climbers succumbing to the mountain's harshness. Reaching the crater rim at sunrise, with the wind whipping and the view of the glaciers below, was a sight that reinforced our climate action mission.
“A man at the top of the mountain didn’t fall there – Vince Lombardi”
Getting to the summit seven days into the expedition was the longest haul. It was a gravelly path flanked by snow spikes, but the sight of the summit sign and the songs of our guides were the final push we needed. Standing there, at the peak, the sense of shared triumph with the Kiliwarrior team was overwhelming. I could hear the words of ASHRAE Region X Historian Greg Schnable in my mind: “Adapt!! Improvise!! Overcome!!” Mission accomplished.
As we descended towards the glacier, our main goal, I encountered an unprecedented surprise—my partner's heartfelt proposal. Right there, amidst the pristine snow at the glacier's foot, it was the most powerful gesture, and a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of time. Our Maasai-inspired wedding celebration, complete with a cake relayed overnight through the camps, up to the peak, was the epitome of teamwork making the dream work.
Step by step, our journey was a testament to the power of collaboration. From the steadfast support of colleagues, to my love’s companionship, and the invaluable assistance of the Kiliwarriors, the climb was a true team effort. The lessons learned on this adventure underscored that real achievements are never solitary.
Our post-climb time in Kenya’s Maasai Mara brought us face-to-face with critical wildlife conservation efforts. The climb, coworkers, family and friends also helped us raise thousands of dollars for Footprint Trust (Giraffe Conservation) the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Basecamp Explorer Foundation (Conservation and Responsible Tourism) and Paint the Planet Pink (Benefitting Breast Cancer Research). This journey embodied the same spirit that drove us up Kilimanjaro—demonstrating the need for collective action against climate change.
Looking back, the ascent of Mt. Kilimanjaro was more than a climb; it was a profound journey of overcoming fears, harnessing mental resilience, and appreciating the power of teamwork. Let's channel this energy into our professional lives and climate action, ensuring the wonders we fight for today remain for future generations.
As I conclude my reflections on this latest crucible moment, I am deeply grateful for my partner in love and adventuring, Marc, the crew of Kiliwarriors who got us to the top in the safest and most convivial way, my colleagues in ASHRAE and industries beyond, and my employer, whose forward-thinking discretionary time-off policy enabled me to chase my dreams and make an impact beyond the workplace.
If you would like to know more about the causes mentioned, here are the links:
1. Footprint Trust. Sponsor a Giraffe via Giraffe Manor’s giraffe repopulation, rewilding program:
2. Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
3. Basecamp Explorer Foundation Kenya (Saruni Basecamp Group)
4. Paint the Planet Pink!
For more information on the expeditions:
1. Kiliwarrior Expeditions. The best team of porters and guides. The expedition before ours included “Smarter Every Day” guy, Destin Sandlin, and the one after included Eva Zu Beck and National Geographic film crew:
2. Saruni Basecamp, Kenya (Basecamp Explorer)
3. Giraffe Manor (Giraffe Conservation + Responsible Tourism)
4. Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro – Smarter Every Day 302. Boiling Water at different altitudes up to 19,300ft!
5. Eva Zu Beck with National Geographic on Kilimanjaro
-Tracey
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