Meet the people who make our mountain culture thrive. Our monthly Employee Spotlight highlights the passionate individuals who bring energy, expertise, and heart to Palisades Tahoe. This month, we’re featuring Sonja Davis, a dedicated leader whose passion for mentoring, love for the mountains, and commitment to ensuring smooth operations make her an invaluable part of the Lift Operations team. With over ten seasons at Palisades Tahoe, Sonja’s unwavering support for her team and her deep knowledge of the resort play a key role in keeping our mountain safe and operational for all to enjoy.
Sonja Davis – Lift Operations Manager
Palisades Tahoe
Years at Palisades: 10
Sonja Davis embodies the leadership and dedication that keep Lift Operations running smoothly at Palisades Tahoe. Always proactive and willing to lend a hand, Sonja is a trusted resource for her team, offering guidance, solutions, and a supportive presence that ensures operations stay efficient. Whether managing complex scheduling or stepping in to address any challenges on the mountain, her ability to stay calm under pressure and focus on the bigger picture never goes unnoticed. Sonja’s strong work ethic, passion for mentoring, and deep commitment to the resort and her colleagues make her an essential and valued part of our team.
Fun Facts:
What is the favorite part of your job? “I love watching my team in action on the hill. I work to cultivate a team that is centered around respect and trust. We need to rely on each other every day to pull off what we do and provide our guests with a safe and fun experience.”
How do you feel you share the spirit of our legendary mountains? “I strive to bring my team together as a cohesive unit so we can all have pride in what we do and why we are here. That is to give our teammates and our guests the best possible experience we can provide while riding our lifts and enjoying our terrain. This is wrapped up in our Service Excellence Actions: Engage and smile at our guests, take extra care with our kiddos and manage our singles lines on those busy days.”
Of the four company values (Prioritizing Purpose, Honoring Authenticity, Cultivating Collaboration, Embracing Empowerment), which of these resonate most with you today? “Today authenticity and collaboration resonate most with me. I push for open and honest communication within my team, so we all have the information needed to effectively and safely do our jobs. I also push for communication and collaboration between departments so we can successfully reach our goals together and support each other. In my experience working together and being transparent cultivates trust and respect in the workplace. I have learned I don’t have all the answers. I ask questions and work with my team. I accept responsibility and hold myself and my team accountable. That to me is being authentic.”
What was your favorite vacation, where did you go, what made it special? “I took a vacation with my adult daughters to Nashville several years back. I knew they would soon be moving on with busy lives and building their own families, so I wanted to take some time to connect and enjoy a vacation together before life got too hectic. Amazing food and great music! Looking forward to topping that one with an upcoming trip this summer with both kids, their partners and my two young grandchildren.”
What’s the most interesting fun fact about yourself? “My dream is to open a horse rescue.”
What’s your favorite animal and why? “Sorry I have to go with two. Dogs and horses. Both have taught me so much. How to love unconditionally, how to trust, how to be patient, how to connect and overall just be a better person.”
If you could have a superpower, what would it be? “Time travel.”
