
Josiah Cherniss
Program Lead
Josiah first joined Access Mammoth as a volunteer in 2022, drawn in by the strong sense of community he saw in the Military Program—and the dedication of the friends already working there. By the winter of 2023, he made the leap to full-time staff and hasn’t looked back since.
What keeps Josiah inspired is the simple fact that he gets to do what he loves every day, surrounded by people who feel like family. Moving to the Eastern Sierra changed his outlook on life, and he feels fortunate to share that renewed perspective with each participant he meets.
Before life in the mountains, Josiah trained at culinary school and worked in fine dining restaurants in San Diego. Cooking remains one of his greatest passions and a favorite way to recharge after a day spent on the trails or snow.
While he finds joy in many Access Mammoth programs, Operation High Altitude stands out. As a Marine Corps Veteran, he values the deep connection that comes from spending a week outdoors—camping, biking, hiking, fishing, and climbing—with fellow veterans. It’s the highlight of his year and a reminder of the power of shared experience.