We had the good fortune of connecting with Melissa An and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Melissa, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I’m a Colorado native born in Colorado Springs and currently residing in Golden, CO. I was raised in an Asian household, participating in household activities and enjoying the outdoors through foraging. In my opinion, this has made me an open minded and slightly well rounded individual. This allows me to explore any and all opportunities to live life to the fullest. I’m an Engineer with a Civil specialty who has a passion for fashion and especially the outdoors. My life revolves around my career and being a guide for Uncharted Outdoorswomen.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a civil engineer, I’ve appreciated the challenges and knowledge gained from pursuing this career, but its only a part of what I choose. Civil engineering came fairly easily, there is a set equation or an outcome you’re seeking but that isn’t the same with guiding. I’m also an outdoors guide for Uncharted Outdoorswomen, an amazing group of individuals trying to bring more everyone and anyone into the outdoors, with a focus on women. This company has given me the confidence to create and pursue my own challenges and to create the ideal environment for myself and my clients. I greatly enjoy the difference in both careers and plan to continue pursuing anything and everything I can try myself. Besides fighting stereotypes and proving them wrong, I focus on growth and finding the best version of yourself in life. Personal moto is to live each day without regret.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would actually avoid the city and take them off-roading to explore the backcountry and enjoy nature. Most likely would start in Golden and have breakfast at Bonfire Burrito. We would then make sure everything is packed before heading into the mountains – ideally a round trip probably headed south to Deckers first. Then back north through Pine and stop for a lunch break, then head out west to Fairplay and visit South Park. Afterwards, head to Buena Vista for a night – possibly hit hot springs and local eateries. After the night, we’d head north to Leadville and again to Silverthorne to experience these cute mining towns. The end would be to take I70 or other back roads back to Denver.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Throughout different timeframes in my growth, I’ve been supported and influenced by some amazing people. My artists career began with the help of my friend Katey Allen, Lenea DeAnn and Sherri Mae, without these ladies I would have never pursued fashion design.

With the outdoors, I’m extremely grateful to Erin Crider of Uncharted Outdoorswomen. She has allowed me to pursue and gain the confidence to run my own events and support.

Website: https://unchartedoutdoorswomen.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/missa.lux/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melissa.an3/

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.