Roots first. Then fruit.
Our mission is to develop Christlike leaders, build testimonies, and strengthen sons and daughters of God so they can lead when it is their turn.
How we do it
One expedition. The lands of the Book of Mormon. Shared work that is hard enough to matter. Mentors who stay. A tribe that continues after the plane lands.
We teach Christlike leadership from the Book of Mormon. We teach youth to use technology instead of being used by it. We keep meeting so the change has time to take root.
Christlike leadership
Each day youth study leadership principles from a Book of Mormon prophet, then practice them in the land and in the tribe.
Responsible technology
A gospel-centered program built with experts in neuroscience helps youth govern their tech habits and use technology as a tool.
A tribe that lasts
Quarterly service summits and monthly online hangouts keep friends and mentors connected long after the trip.
Who We Are
Tyler Smith — Founder
Tyler is married to his beautiful wife, Jessa, and has 4 kids who he adores. Currently, Tyler manages 100+ young service missionaries serving at church headquarters in SLC.
He holds a bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University and two master’s degrees from the University of Minnesota. He was an assistant dean at USU, a strategy consultant at IBM, and a private wealth manager. Before Ensign Roots he founded Liberty Springs, which created experiential learning trips for young international students.
He built this program so the change would last past the airport.
Aubree Pocock — Associate Director and Expedition Leader
Aubree earned a bachelor’s degree in Recreation Administration from Utah State University. She is an expedition leader with backcountry and primitive skills and years as a wilderness therapy guide. She has programmed outdoor adventures for people with disabilities.
She served a mission in Belize and El Salvador. She leads in the field so the days work—and so every youth is seen.
Neal Summers
Neal is the father of three. After losing his wife to cancer, he has raised his children with the line “I can do all things through Christ.” He loves teaching youth and sharing his testimony.
He served a mission in Guatemala and loves the people and the spirit of the Book of Mormon in that land. He holds a master’s degree in human resources from Utah State University and works as a senior recruiter at Church headquarters in Salt Lake City.