Raised in rural Montana, Eric learned to hunt, fish, manage a ranch and enjoy all types of outdoor recreation at an early age. As he got older, his passion for helping others enjoy the great outdoors led him to become a hunting guide and was a driving force for him to create onX. That passion continues to be a driving force in his ongoing efforts to create new outdoor recreation opportunities while being a steward for existing opportunities. 

Eric graduated from Montana State in 2006 after earning a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. He began his professional career as a mechanical engineer and recreation data entrepreneur, while his passion drove him to the goal of improving mapping and GPS functionality to help others access and enjoy outdoor recreation

In 2009, Eric founded onX and revolutionized how outdoor enthusiasts identify, access and explore outdoor recreation opportunities. He served as the CEO of the company until 2018 and is now a member of its board of directors.  During his time as CEO, Eric led the onX team as they meshed public and private land ownership data together to create the first comprehensive database and map of land ownership across the entire United States. Combined with other key datasets and an intuitive mapping interface, the team launched and scaled multiple successful consumer products and apps that simplify overwhelming outdoor recreation regulations and information. 

His passion for helping others enjoy the outdoors has given Eric focus as he looks to convert his company’s success into a lasting impact. Eric is an advocate for preserving and creating new, freely available public recreation opportunities, while still respecting and supporting private land rights and private recreation opportunities. Beginning in 2019, he has utilized his keen eye for rural recreation land and knowledge of property law in both his current employment and to acquire properties that are key for public access. A result of one of his efforts was launched in 2024 after a partnership between Eric, onX, RMEF and other like-minded companies improved access to 13,000 acres of public land on Elk Mountain in Idaho.

In addition to his professional endeavors and support for diverse outdoor recreation opportunities for all, Eric oversees his family’s cattle ranch and enjoys spending time with his family, hunting. skiing, trail running, and finding any time he can to work and play in the outdoors.