Alumni and current member of the coaching staff Ian Burnett has been tabbed as the Director of Fort Lewis College.

“I feel so fortunate to have the opportunity to continue growing and developing the cycling program here at Fort Lewis College,” Burnett said. “The chance to continue the legacy of growth and success within this program is something that I take seriously and look forward to as I look to the promising future of FLC Cycling.”

A 2010 alumnus of FLC and homegrown talent, Burnett joined the cycling club as a freshman in 2005. He was a 2007 Fort Lewis TTT National Champion and a 2010 Cyclocross Team Championship member, and graduated in 2010 as the FLC Cycling Club president. He has a bachelor’s degree in business and finance.

“Being part of Fort Lewis College Cycling and the city of Durango, I am truly internally built,” Burnett said. “When I came back to FLC, I was able to start coaching and working on leadership building for our student-athletes, and from there I was able to learn and grow under Dave's leadership.”

In his time away from the Fort Lewis College community, Burnett pursued his dream of becoming a professional cyclist. He raced all over the world in events including the U.S. Pro Challenge, Tour of Utah and Tour of Alberta. His professional stint spanned five years.

Burnett then returned to Durango and acquired his real estate license while remaining heavily involved in cycling. He began coaching at his alma mater, side by side with Dave Hagen while assisting with day-to-day operations, coaching, and many aspects of the team environment. Additionally, Burnett holds a certificate as a USA Cycling Club director and has been a USA Cycling Club member since 2001.

“What I have learned in my time on staff here is how to produce at a high level in all of the details – big or small. My vision is to continue to push that standard forward and continue to recruit those top-level athletes that allow us to be successful,” said Burnett.

“My message for those students who are considering joining our program is that we are unique and inclusive in what we offer,” he said. “We have opportunities for those athletes who want to get out there and ride and enjoy Durango, and at the same time we have opportunities for the ones who want to pursue cycling professionally – there is a lot that we can take on for those who are looking to join us.”