TAOS, N.M. (April 10, 2026) — Futurist Climbing Consultants announced today that Joe Zentmyer has been appointed Chief Executive Officer.
Zentmyer adds deep expertise in small-business coaching, strategic planning, climbing-gym finance, facility launches, multi-location growth strategy, and operations management.
Zentmyer’s experience includes:
- Co-founded First Ascent Climbing & Fitness, a Chicago-based company, leading business development, operations, and finance
- Launched seven commercial climbing gyms across multiple markets (over 200,000 square feet of climbing gyms)
- 15 years of Fortune 500 management experience in roles of increasing responsibility
“Joe’s addition represents a meaningful expansion in the scope and sophistication of the consulting services we can offer our clients,” said Timy Fairfield, co-founder and president.
“Joe’s industry experience, complementary expertise, and principled approach to client service make him an ideal fit for Futurist,” said Brandi Proffitt, co-founder and vice president.
With Zentmyer’s appointment, co-founding principal Timy Fairfield will continue as president, creative director, and spokesperson. Co-founding principal Brandi Proffitt will continue as vice president, data analyst, and business manager.
Zentmyer said, “I’ve worked closely with Futurist over the years. Their guidance and mentorship were a powerful benefit to me and my businesses. I’m honored to bring that same passion for innovation, clients, and climbing to Futurist’s next chapter.”
About Futurist Climbing Consultants
Based in Taos, New Mexico, Futurist Climbing Consultants (est. 2009) is independently owned and operated by its original co-founders—professional rock climber and U.S. National Competition Climbing Team veteran Timy Fairfield, and professional rock climber and competitor Brandi Proffitt. Futurist provides climbing gym start-up business development consulting, facility design guidance, and ongoing operations support to help clients plan and launch commercially viable, state-of-the-art climbing gyms that align with a modern vision for the sport. Futurist is committed to an independent voice in the climbing gym industry, informed by forward-thinking leadership and ethical, service-based business practices.
For more information, visit: www.futuristclimbing.com.
CBJ press releases are written by the sponsor and do not represent the views of the Climbing Business Journal editorial team.
