ABSF Board Candidate: David Paulson

Hometown:
Deephaven, MN

Years of ABSF Membership:
20+

Occupation:
Career was solutions development manager at Apple. Manages my own company for 15 years. Continuing Nordic coaching for 55 years.

Why are you interested in being a member of the ABSF Board of Directors? 

I have been an enthusiastic competitor and volunteer with the Birkie since 1975. I have skied the Birkie 20 times and the Korte 14 times. I have been chief I’d start for the Korte for over 14 years. In addition, I have been a volunteer in almost every capacity from managing the old crossing at 00, controlling the cut off for classic and skate, passing out bibs, shoveling snow after late night snow storms, etc. I am only one of the legions of volunteers and competitors for whom the Birkie has been a special addition to our lives.

What knowledge and skills do you possess that can benefit the organization?

Over the last 25 years I am been been on non-profit boards in the twin cities area. I was the executive director of the Minnesota High Tech 501c3 (subordinate to the Minnesota High Tech Council. I managed the Computers for Schools at Stillwater Prison. I was the Chair of the Minnesota Trails Development Council appointed by two governors as we made transitions from rail roads to bike trails to ski trails etc. I also served for five years on the Star Council which was formed after the President finally signed the Special Disabilities Act, creating access to public buildings and public pathways to fully enfranchise those with mobility issues. As a musician, I have been on the board of directors for the International Tuba and Euphonium Association. I have been a Level 2 USSA Nordic coach and have traveled NENSA U-16 three times, one spring to the Western. Nordic Championships in Idaho with U-16, and was lead coach for U-18 to the Canadian Nationals in 2023. I been an high school Nordic coach and teacher for 55 years and recently received the Minnesota Life Time Achievement Award.

How do you see yourself helping to fulfill the ABSF vision, mission and values? 

I have been in leadership positions for decades. My leadership approach is collegial, working to bring forth the best ideas from everyone, examining the benefits and challenges of each and then working carefully for consensus. I do expect those who take responsibilities to fulfill those responsibilities and excuses to do so expose a lack of commitment. That seems harsh but it is an important element in efforts to move an organization forward. I value my own opinions and bring those opinions forward, but once alternative opinions displace mine, I get on board. I am a joyful person and I do everything I can to communicate joy so that the entire team looks forward to doing the tasks ahead.

Over the years I have worked with many different projects including directing many ski races. Once I have made a commitment to do something I have aggressively worked to fulfill that commitment. I think my energy and commitment to take had been, over time, inspirational to others to do what they signed on to do. As far as diversity is concerned, I will eagerly work with anyone who has a passion for Nordic skiing and wants to keep the forward momentum going for the Birkie…and my favorite race, the Korte!