Carlen Thiessen || 2026-2027 KREU Ambassador

Carlen Thiessen is a passionate backcountry rider, mentor, fabricator, and family man who is dedicated to helping the next generation of riders discover what makes Alaska's riding community so special. Based in Fairbanks, Carlen combines years of mountain riding experience with a genuine passion for teaching others how to ride smarter, safer, and with greater confidence in the backcountry.

What makes Carlen a natural fit for The Sierra Winter Way is his commitment to community. Through his involvement with Alaska Safe Riders clinics, he has helped riders across the state develop the skills and techniques needed to unlock the full potential of modern mountain sleds while making informed decisions in the backcountry. He believes that riding is about much more than reaching the next peak—it's about sharing knowledge, building friendships, and creating a culture where everyone can continue learning and improving together.

Outside of snowmobiling, Carlen's faith, family, and craftsmanship are at the center of his life. Whether he's finishing a custom home build, fabricating and repairing sleds through his side business, or introducing his young daughter to the outdoors aboard her Kitty Cat, he is constantly investing in the people and passions that matter most to him.

As a KREU Ambassador, Carlen represents the values that The Sierra Winter Way was built upon: mentorship, community, education, and a genuine love for being on the snow. Through riding clinics, personal connections, and countless days spent helping others progress, he continues to inspire riders to get outside, challenge themselves, and become active members of Alaska's growing backcountry community.

Follow Carlen's journey: @carlenthiessen

Owner & Designer | Artwork by Sierra Winter Marketing Director | Alaska Safe Riders

Assistant Instructor | Soul Rides

Community Relations Manager | Sunshine CHC

Owner | Bald Mountain BNB

✉️ Email: sierrawintersmith@outlook.com 🌐 Website: www.artworkbysierrawinter.com 📞 Phone: 1-907-491-5016 (text preferred due to limited cell service)

Offering custom designs, print products, and personalized artwork. Specializing in snowmobile wraps, swag, branding, and creative design solutions to bring your ideas to life. Design it the Sierra Winter Way.

Follow me on social media: Facebook | Instagram