Create Positivity in the World

Our skilled team members are motivated by their daily opportunities to create positivity in the world. And a big part of that is helping people to realize their dreams to own beautiful, meaningful, functional, and safe shelters.

Our Team

John & Kelly Gibson – CEO/Owner

John Gibson had a career spanning over 30 years of leadership in the Lawn & Tree Care Industry when his life journey intersected with an opportunity to purchase Colorado Yurt Company in 2020. The Colorado Yurt Company was started in 1976 by Dan & Emma Kigar, where they manufacture yurts, tipis, and tents for individual consumers as ADU’s, parks, camp and campgrounds, ski resorts, schools, festivals, and outfitters, among many others. Inspiring outdoor connections through quality craftsmanship performed on the Western Slope of Colorado has brought together his passion for the outdoors and leadership skills to steward a world-class team creating outdoor structures that captivate. In June of 2022, the company was rebranded Secret Creek, makers of Colorado Yurts, Earthworks Tipis, Destination Tents and moved into our new building at Colorado Outdoors in Montrose, Colorado.

Joe Winkelmann – Director of Operations

Joe holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Missouri-Rolla. He has a wealth of experience spanning the apparel and fashion industry, consumer services, low and high-volume manufacturing, and highly technical engineering fields. His skill set includes business management, team building, safety, human resources, cost efficiency, engineering, strategic planning, business development, and business process improvement. Joe’s standout quality is his ability to think innovatively and find creative solutions to complex challenges.

“If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself.” – Henry Ford

 

Megan Bretti – Sales Guide

Megan, a Colorado State University graduate in Business and Marketing (2014), joined Secret Creek’s sales team in August 2021 and moved to Montrose later that fall. Her role includes generating sales, customer service, and assisting with marketing efforts. An avid outdoorswoman, Megan enjoys big-game hunting, golfing, hiking, camping, and spending time with loved ones. She’s passionate about exploring the mountains and cherishes providing outdoor experiences to people worldwide.

James DeYoung – Sales Guide 

With years of experience in the construction industry, James specialized in both remodeling and new construction. Over the past decade, James has honed his skills in various sales roles, offering a comprehensive start-to-finish sales approach that ensures customer satisfaction and project success. Originally from southwest Michigan, James relocated to the beautiful western slope, where every weekend feels like a vacation. James’s hobbies include snowboarding, hiking, riding enduro bikes, and remodeling homes. James looks forward to guiding you on your journey to your Secret Creek!

 

Amy Alexander – Guest Experience Manager

Amy is our guest Experience Manger. Her welcoming nature and friendly personality make her a great tour guide and asset to our team.
Her experience in the hospitality industry shines through in her dedication to exceptional customer service. She has managed restaurants, lodges, luxury resorts and has owned her own event catering company.

She now manages our Secret Creek Village nestled by the Uncompahgre River. You can find her at our front desk eager to help you create your own unique experience at our Secret Creek Village. She’s happy to book your stay, group, event, business meeting or take you on a tour. In her words, “a tour is a must see while in Montrose!”

Amy thrives on living peacefully, harmoniously and in balance with the world around her. She maintains a deep respect for nature and all of its life forms. She enjoys the gifts of aroma, tranquility, beauty and adventure the outdoors provides.  On her days off, she’ll be hiking, skiing, biking or just being.