Raised in rural Montana, Eric developed a passion for outdoor recreation and helping others enjoy the great outdoors at an early age. That passion drove him and his entrepreneurial spirit throughout his life, including when he founded onXmaps in 2009, and it continues to be a driving force in his efforts to create new outdoor recreation opportunities and steward 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.  

His passion for helping others enjoy the outdoors has given him a focus as he looks to convert his company’s success to a lasting impact. Eric is an advocate for preserving and creating new freely available public recreation opportunities, while keenly aware to not pit that against private land rights or private recreation opportunities that serve a need as well. 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. A partnership with onX, RMEF and other like-minded companies to improve 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.