our team
why us?
At Tandem BASE Moab, our team of experienced instructors brings over a decade of expertise in tandem base jumping right here in Moab, Utah. Our professionals are not just passionate about base jumping; they are dedicated to teaching and sharing the sport with enthusiasts and newcomers alike. With our skilled guidance, you can confidently embark on an adventure that’s as safe as it is thrilling.
Matt Laj
Matt LaJeunesse, also known as "Laj," is a well-known figure in the skydiving and BASE jumping communities. He is recognized globally as the most experienced and successful Tandem BASE guide. With thousands of jumps, Matt's expertise in skydiving and BASE jumping is unmatched.
Matt's impressive credentials include working with famous names like Jeb Corliss, participating in world championships, partnering with Red Bull, and contributing to Hollywood movies and TV shows. He has also worked with celebrities, been involved in viral marketing, participated in Nitro Circus, and trained the US military.
Matt's dedication to Tandem BASE jumping since 2012 sets him apart. His extensive experience ensures trust, success, and unparalleled adventure for his clients. While some competitors may try to mimic Tandem BASE Moab's approach, Matt's genuine commitment and proven track record make the difference clear.
Photo credit: Max Haimowitz
Katie Hansen
Katie LaJeunesse, a passionate and talented skydiver and BASE jumper, has been active in the sport since 2003. Her journey began with a jump the day before her high school graduation in Bremerton, WA. Katie's expertise spans wingsuit flying, freeflying, and canopy swooping. She has wingsuit BASE jumped worldwide, including Baffin Island, and competed in events like the World Wingsuit League (WWL) base races and Red Bull ACES. Her level-headed approach and continuous learning make her a standout in the skydiving and BASE communities. Katie's commitment to safety and excellence ensures unparalleled adventure for her clients.
After moving to California in 2006, Katie rekindled her interest in skydiving, learning wingsuit flying and achieving her first wingsuit BASE jump in 2010 on her third expedition to Baffin Island. She has shared her expertise by training and mentoring new jumpers. Through pushing the boundaries of skydiving and BASE jumping, Katie’s dedication and achievements make her a respected figure in the field. She is also owner of the local Moab business “Moab Oasis IV Hydration” perfect for post Tandem Base Moab hydration.
Photo credit: DSquared
Ryan Katchmar
Ryan has been parachuting since he was 18 years old. With 15 years of experience, he has made nearly 10,000 skydives and 2,000 BASE jumps. He is a USPA-certified Tandem instructor and AFF instructor, and he’s also a highly experienced wind tunnel instructor with thousands of hours of tunnel flying under his belt.
Ryan works for Tandem BASE Moab, Skydive Moab, and Climb Moab. He can take you skydiving and BASE jumping all before lunch. Ryan enjoys just about all the adventures Moab has to offer, from parachute sports to motorsports, climbing to hiking. If you jump with Ryan, be sure to ask him for some of his favorite secret spots.
Ryan is one of the most respected BASE jumpers in the Moab area. He has opened tons of jumps all over the region and runs a fundraiser that donates tens of thousands of dollars to Search and Rescue, EMS, and many nonprofits.
Mitch Heupel
Mitch has been skydiving since he was 20, starting with his first jump while studying at the University of Wisconsin. Since then, parachuting has become his life. Over the past 13 years, Mitch has completed more than 7,000 jumps without incident. He works with Tandem BASE Moab and Skydive Moab, making him one of the few people who can take you tandem skydiving and tandem BASE jumping in one day. Mitch is a former manager and chief instructor at Skydive Utah and has been a wind tunnel instructor since 2015. His other passions include speed flying, dirt biking, climbing, skiing, mountain biking, and guiding snowmobile and dog sled tours. Mitch is a true outdoor enthusiast, and Tandem BASE Moab is thrilled to have him on the team.
