OUTDOOR LEADERS PROGRAM

The Outdoor LEADERS Program is an allnew program for teens and young adults to explore the professional world of outdoor recreation and environmental activism. Aimed at increasing access and diversity in the outdoors, our 6month pilot course will feature monthly inperson training workshops to help participants build outdoor industry work readiness skills and change the way we look at nature and how we enjoy it. Participants will have the opportunity to earn Wilderness First Aid certification, pursue individual focuses, and creatively enact a vision for the future of the outdoor community.

Earth Team and Big City Mountaineers have been partnering for over two years now offering outdoor trip experiences for youth in Earth Team’s Sustainable Youth Internship program. We’re excited to expand our collaboration to bring forth this new program and support the next generation of outdoor explorers.

Application Deadline: Wednesday, January 18, 2023 at 11:59 PM

Before applying, please review the requirements.

Contact OLP Program Coordinator, Itzel Gomez at itzel@earthteam.net if you have any questions.

Requirements

Must be a previous or current Earth Team intern between the ages of 16 and 20 years old.

Commitment to complete this 6month program is mandatory. This includes attendance at monthly weekend workshops, an overnight trip, and a multiday backpacking expedition (please note: prior outdoor experience is not required  and all gear will be provided).

Agreement to shadow BCM instructors and lead youth on a day hike, overnight trip, or multiday backpacking expedition with partner youth organizations.

Strong desire to build outdoor industry skills and gain useful knowledge for a possible career in Outdoor Education.

Compensation

Participants will receive a stipend amount up to $800 upon completion of the OLP apprenticeship program. Previous BCM trip participants are strongly encouraged to apply.

Contact info

If you have questions please contact OLP Program Coordinator, Itzel Gomez at itzel@earthteam.net

Want to learn more about the program? Please sign up for a virtual information session hosted by Earth Team and Big City Mountaineers staff.

January 12, 2023, 5:00 PM

Topic: Info Session: Outdoor Leaders Program

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88444049846

Virtual info sessions

Schedule

Monthly inperson workshops are scheduled for the third weekend of each month starting in February 2023 and ending in August 2023.

Training Focus Dates Outcomes
Introduction to Outdoor Education
2/18/2023
Gain an understanding for leading youth programs, find your leader voice, and build skills to facilitate outdoor learning.
Wilderness First Aid Certification
TBD
Prepare for the unexpected in an engaging, hands-on introduction to wilderness medicine.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Active component throughout each workshop
Reflect on and discuss access and representation in the outdoor industry. Practice skills to address social injustice.
Day Hike and BCM Mentorship
April 15, 2023
BCM staff and field instructors will connect with participants and offer personal insights, guidance and support.
Overnight Camping Trip
May 2023
...
Multi-day Backpacking Expedition
June 2023
Go on a 7-day backpacking trip led by BCM instructors and learn the basics of expedition planning, navigation, and backcountry and group management skills.
Immersive Training Opportunities with partner Youth Organizations
Dates vary between April-July 2023
Opportunity to apply what you’ve learned during training sessions and lead youth...
Professional Skills
7/29/2023.
Build industry-ready skills, network with industry leaders, and explore outdoor careers. Learn from industry leaders about responsibilities they hold and job duties.

Access

Students will see themselves represented in the outdoor industry. Earth Team and BCM staff will work with students to make connections in the fields that interest them, including pursuing opportunities for mentorships and internships.

Personal Connections to the outdoors

Students will experience outdoor spaces and activities in a way that allows them to integrate them into their daily life in the future. A deeper and more meaningful understanding of the work and role of people in creating these places.

A new vision for the outdoor industry

Students feel that they have the power to make a difference and that their voices will be valued however they choose to use them.

Outdoor TRips

Check out previous outdoor trips

What do people say?

This is one of the best things I have ever gotten the chance to do. I was looking forward to this all week and my expectations of fun adventures did not fail! This is one of the best experiences of my life!
Oakland Intern
The weekend trip made my love for nature to grow and I really appreciate what nature gave us. The trip also made me break out of my comfort zone by having me make new friends and do things that I have never done, such as camping. I really appreciate everyone who made me feel comfortable and happy.
Richmond Intern

Our partners

In collaboration with