Andy Armstrong

National Cave and Karst Management Liaison

Andy Armstrong’s fascination with caves began during childhood in Tennessee, where summer camps and scout outings first introduced him to the underground world. Even as a boy, he was captivated by the mystery of what lay beneath the hills — hidden passages, unseen landscapes, and the thrill of discovery. Visits to Mammoth Cave National Park deepened that curiosity. Tours through its vast chambers and books on cave exploration revealed that cavers were making groundbreaking discoveries there and across the globe. During field courses with Western Kentucky University at Mammoth Cave, Andy met many of the heroes he admired — and one who became his greatest partner in both life and exploration: Bonny.

Since then, Andy has explored some of the world’s most remarkable cave systems, including Wind Cave, Jewel Cave, Lechuguilla Cave, and caves within the Grand Canyon. Drawn to long passages and remote settings, he has spent many nights in subterranean and above-ground wilderness, where the silence, beauty, and camaraderie of expedition life left lasting impressions. His passion for safety and training led him to help shape the National Cave Rescue Commission’s Small Party Assisted Rescue course, now taught across North America and credited with improving safety for countless explorers.

As a Cave Resource Specialist with the National Park Service, Andy authored management guidelines, built training programs for trip leaders, facilitated scientific research, directed emergency services, and provided technical expertise to parks and agencies nationwide. He also mentored younger cavers and collaborated with international teams, sharing knowledge and building connections across the caving community.

Today, as the National Cave and Karst Management Liaison, Andy is committed to supporting the people behind cave management — focusing on their safety, wellness, training, and cave and karst management and research needs. Having worn many hats over the years — volunteer caver, rescuer, educator, scientist, and program manager — he is dedicated to bridging gaps between diverse stakeholders who share a passion for caves and karst but sometimes struggle to connect.

Andy calls Gold Canyon, Arizona home, where he lives with his wife Bonny Armstrong and their two pet ducks. The ducks provide daily comic relief and surprises, reminding him that adventure can be found above ground too.

Education

Bachelor of Science, Geography/Geology, East Tennessee State University, 2000

Selected Recent Publications

To see Andy’s complete publication record, visit his Google Scholar profile.