Rory Schmier

Rory Schmier is a 56-year-old construction professional and ranch manager living in Arboles, Colorado. He was born in Durango and spent his early years moving throughout the state with his family. He attended school through the fifth grade in Pagosa Springs before the family relocated to Monte Vista, where he completed high school. These early transitions helped shape his adaptability and gave him a lasting connection to Colorado’s rural communities. After high school, Rory began his career as a farmhand for a local family, spending six years developing a strong foundation in agriculture. He gained experience in land management, farm machinery, and seasonal work cycles. He later moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, and worked as a mason for one year. That experience introduced him to construction techniques that would later influence his career direction. Rory returned to Colorado and operated a liquor store in the Alamosa area for five years. This small business venture helped him gain knowledge in retail operations, customer service, and inventory control. Still drawn to building, he transitioned into construction full-time. Over the next two decades, he ran a successful custom home building and remodeling company, focusing on high-end projects in the San Luis Valley and Durango regions. He managed every stage of the building process and earned a reputation for dependable craftsmanship. In 2012, Rory shifted back to agriculture, becoming the manager of a 300-acre hay ranch near Durango. He now oversees the complete hay production cycle, including planting, irrigation, harvesting, and equipment maintenance. He also manages rental properties on the ranch and handles hay distribution across the region. Outside of work, Rory enjoys motorcycle riding, dirt biking, boating, water skiing, hunting, and camping. He regularly contributes to his community by offering handyman support to elderly residents.