Andrea has been riding since she could walk. Raised on a small farm in Michigan, she grew up surrounded by the horses no one else wanted — the quirky, the misunderstood, the ones who needed patience and a soft hand. Those early years shaped not only her skills, but her philosophy: every horse deserves a partner who listens, understands, and works with them.
She began her journey riding western, later discovering dressage in high school. During that time, she worked for a dedicated dressage trainer who introduced her to Roman, the Lipizzaner gelding who changed everything. With Roman, Andrea found true harmony, sparking a deeper passion for classical training and planting one of her biggest dreams — riding in the Olympics.
After years of growth, setbacks, and countless lessons learned, Andrea moved to Colorado and launched her own training program. Here, she continues to share her lifelong passion with riders and horses who want a partnership rooted in balance and understanding.
Today, Andrea is the Chair of Education for High Plains Dressage, where she supports educational opportunities for riders across the region. Alongside teaching and training, she remains committed to her own development as a rider, always seeking new knowledge so she can better guide her students toward harmony, confidence, and progression in the saddle.
At AK Dressage, Andrea’s mission is simple:
to help horses and riders work together as true partners — with softness, clarity, and feel.
Our Story...
Our Training Philosophy
At AK Dressage, my philosophy is rooted in creating relaxed, confident horses who understand how to use their bodies correctly—without tension, force, or confusion. I believe great training blends the best of every discipline, and I love incorporating elements from western riding, trail work, and classical dressage to create well-rounded, mentally balanced horses.
From the softness and feel of western riders, to the bravery and body awareness gained on the trail, to the precision and harmony of dressage—each aspect brings something valuable to the horse’s development. When combined thoughtfully, they help create a partnership where the horse feels comfortable, willing, and able to perform with true correctness.
My goal is always the same:
a relaxed horse, a confident rider, and a beautiful connection built through fairness, empathy, and clarity.