ABOUT aBÆRE
Better plan. Better snow.
At aBÆRE, we believe great snow surfaces begin long before the first snow gun turns on. Successful snowmaking programs are built through thoughtful planning, sound infrastructure, experienced project management, and a deep understanding of mountain operations.
The name aBÆRE (pronounced ah-BAIR-uh) is inspired by the Norwegian word bære — "to bear," "to carry," or "to support." While we've made the name our own, the meaning reflects our approach: supporting mountain operators through every stage of a project's lifecycle, from initial assessment and planning through construction, commissioning, and ongoing operations.
Whether helping a resort evaluate an aging snowmaking system, manage a complex infrastructure project, or improve snow surface performance, our role is the same: provide the expertise, guidance, and support needed to help clients make confident decisions and achieve lasting results.
A lifelong obsession with snow.
Some people collect art. Some collect cars.
We collect snow guns.
Over the years, what started as a fascination with snowmaking technology became a career spanning more than three decades in mountain operations, snowmaking, heavy civil construction, and pipeline infrastructure. That passion still shows up today in a collection of historic snowmaking equipment displayed throughout our home, workshop, and property.
Fortunately for our clients, the obsession extends well beyond collecting equipment. It drives a commitment to understanding how systems work, how projects succeed, and how mountain operators can consistently deliver better snow with the resources they have available.
That same passion forms the foundation of aBÆRE's approach to every project.
SERVICES
Full-lifecycle snowmaking consulting.
Many firms focus on a single phase of a project. We work across the entire lifecycle.
Systems Assessment
Understanding where you are before deciding where to go.
We evaluate existing snowmaking infrastructure, operational practices, water and air systems, pumping capacity, snowmaking equipment, and overall system performance. The goal is to identify opportunities, constraints, risks, and priorities that inform future investment decisions.
Infrastructure Planning
Turning operational goals into practical, achievable plans.
From conceptual planning through capital improvement strategies, we help resorts prioritize infrastructure investments, evaluate alternatives, develop budgets, and create phased implementation plans that align with operational and financial objectives.
Construction Management
Bridging the gap between planning and execution.
aBÆRE provides owner's representation and construction management services throughout project delivery. We coordinate stakeholders, manage schedules and budgets, oversee contractors and vendors, and help ensure projects are completed safely, efficiently, and according to design intent.
Snow Operations
Because the ultimate goal isn't infrastructure—it's snow.
Drawing on decades of hands-on mountain operations experience, we help clients optimize snowmaking, grooming, trail preparation, and snow surface management practices to improve consistency, efficiency, and guest experience.
LEADERSHIP
John Kern
Principal Consultant
For more than three decades, John Kern has worked at the intersection of mountain operations, snowmaking, construction, and infrastructure. His experience ranges from managing snow surfaces and snowmaking systems to leading complex heavy civil and pipeline projects, providing a perspective that bridges both operational and construction environments.
As founder of aBÆRE Snowmaking, John helps alpine and nordic venues navigate everything from long-range planning and capital improvements to project delivery and operational performance. A lifelong snowmaking enthusiast, he is known for an extensive collection of historic snow guns and an enduring fascination with the technology, history, and craft of making snow.
GALLERY
