This summer at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market, 35 outstanding and committed emerging leaders from across the outdoor industry will complete the third annual OIA Skip Yowell Future Leadership Academy, a six-month immersive leadership training program to prepare and unite the next generation of outdoor industry leaders. Over the course of the program, these individuals were participated in personal and professional development and mentorship all while learning about top issues and opportunities facing the industry today.
“Throughout the SYFLA program, I have had the opportunity to not only focus and expand my knowledge base on current issues facing our industry, like trade policy, sustainability and diversity, but I have also pushed my personal boundaries (ice climbing!),” said Erin Hoffarth, SYFLA Class 3 and Mountain Khaki’s marketing manager. “Outside of professional growth, the connections I have made are truly a blessing. What an honor; this program comes highly recommended.”
With Class 3’s graduation almost here, OIA is looking for the next class of individuals tagged to become the leaders of tomorrow. 35 outdoorists from OIA member brands, retailers and organizations will be selected to participate in the Class 4. Candidates should be director level and below and demonstrate a commitment to growing and bettering the outdoor industry. Applications and references are due September 24, 2018. For more information, contact OIA at info@outdoorindustry.org.
