Chase Dawkins’ role is to create an environment where a major retail tech team is motivated to do their best work. However, he feels his best work is accomplished in the great outdoors.
“As a child, my stepdad bought me a camera for my birthday,” recalls Chase. “That gift taught me many lifelong lessons. The main lesson—that in life you only get so many ‘shots,’ and you’d better be ready for them—is one I carry with me to this day.”
Chase began a career in photography, which he credits as giving him the confidence to trust his instincts. As he grew and became more business-savvy, he helped launch a couple of new studio brands for the largest photography company in the world. One focused on family portraits; the other was built around high-end portraiture, weddings, and some commercial work. Over the years, he received plenty of recognition for his work. Says Chase, “The two I’m most proud of were the Lifetouch Chairman’s Award in 2011, and shortly thereafter, I had some prints selected for a traveling international exhibition. One of my photos was even on display in the Vatican for a bit!”
After transitioning careers and joining MarketSource more than a decade ago, Chase stepped away from the camera. He still enjoys photography as a hobby, directing his focus to nature.
“One of my loves in life is being in awe of the world around us,” says Chase. “I can easily stare at a great city skyline for hours and ponder everything humans had to accomplish to bring that skyline to life. I can also wander a beautiful trail, such as the Hall of Mosses in the Hoh Rainforest and just simply be at peace.”
“One of my loves in life is being in awe of the world around us,” says Chase. “I can easily stare at a great city skyline for hours and ponder everything humans had to accomplish to bring that skyline to life. I can also wander a beautiful trail, such as the Hall of Mosses in the Hoh Rainforest and just simply be at peace.”
In fact, Chase has visited some 35 national parks and would like to explore them all as time allows. He’s also visited 49 states and hopes to check Alaska off the list this year with his husband, Dion. For the time being, though, he’s quite content exploring various places nearby. Some of his favorite spots include his home state of Washington—where he marvels at the sheer amount of biodiversity—Montana, Utah, California, and Idaho. In time, he looks forward to exploring the East Coast on a long road trip. “The great thing about spending time in nature is that it’s always evolving—there’s always another trail to take, and every season brings a different experience,” he says.
“My love of the outdoors is tied to my love of being in awe,” he explains. “And as much as I love people—and I know it’s important to maintain great communication with my teammates—I may occasionally find myself experiencing social fatigue. Being outdoors recharges my batteries quicker than anything else I’ve found.”
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