Mike owns and operates First Chair Travel Co. Born and raised in Rome NY, Mike made his first turns by the age of two, and had an affinity for the mountains ever since. Growing up, the O’Connell family spent every weekend ski racing at Gore Mountain, which only made Mike’s passion for skiing grow.

​

Now based in the greater Boston area, Mike travels throughout Canada and the United States in search of the best big mountain skiing in North America. He personally scouts each trip location for outstanding accommodations and restaurants to ensure guests have the best possible experience - riding and living like the locals.​