Mission Statement
At Bluestem Boulders, our mission is to inspire and nurture a vibrant climbing community through accessible, high-quality climbing experiences. We are dedicated to fostering a welcoming environment where climbers of all backgrounds and skill levels can connect, challenge themselves, and grow. By prioritizing inclusivity and community engagement we aim to build not just stronger climbers, but stronger bonds within our community.
Meet The Team
Brian Doscher
Owner and Manager
Brian began climbing while attending Iowa State University, where he likely spent more time on the climbing wall than in the classroom. He completed his degree in 2014 and dedicated the following years to climbing and immersing himself in the industry.
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Brian’s initial foray into the climbing world involved selling climbing and outdoor gear at various retailers. In 2017, he and his partner relocated to Ithaca, NY, where Brian was hired as a supervisor and routesetter at a local gym. He quickly advanced to head setter and recognized the opportunity to build a career in the industry. In early 2021, Brian accepted the role of Director of Routesetting at Climb Iowa. Drawing on his extensive experience and knowledge, he decided to launch Bluestem Boulders with the support of many friends.
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Brian is passionate about movement and believes that climbing should be accessible to everyone. He hopes the community will embrace the diverse styles offered at Bluestem. You’ll likely find Brian either brushing your project or climbing on the Tension Board 2.
Shania Peralta
Manager
Shania was introduced to climbing in 2015 when her partner began working at a local climbing gym. What started as a casual pastime evolved into a deep passion in 2021, inspiring her to become actively involved in the climbing community and create a platform through her vegan climbing account.
In 2022, she joined Climb Iowa’s routesetting team where she earned her Level 1 Routesetting Certification and became a youth coach within her first year. Her dedication to the sport opened the door for her to assist Brian in opening Bluestem Boulders. With her expertise as both a routesetter and youth coach, Shania aims to leverage her skills to develop and provide comprehensive programs for the Bluestem Boulders community.
As a short Latinx climber, Shania recognizes the significance of representation in the climbing community. She hopes that Bluestem will be a welcoming space for every climber, fostering an inclusive environment where all can thrive.
Jake DeGroat
Assistant Manager
Jake found climbing in 2020 while attending the University of Northern Iowa (UNI). He quickly became mesmerized by the sport and the immensely welcoming climbing community. In 2021, he became the Head Route Setter at UNI and found a love for outdoor climbing (specifically, the world class Iowa limestone). Afterwards, Jake took on the world of commercial climbing at Climb Iowa as their Gym Manager and as a part of their route setting team.
Throughout his climbing career, Jake has dedicated his time to climbing outdoors around Iowa and the country, developing classic climbs in Iowa, and introducing people to the world of indoor/outdoor climbing. Without the people Jake met along his journey, he does not know where he would be. Jake understands the importance of a solid support system and hopes to be a resource in the climbing world and life for all.
You'll usually find Jake chatting with fellow climbers around the gym or meandering around the woods in NE Iowa looking for his next project.