The Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA) announced that its upcoming 2025 conference will be held Aug. 19-21 in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Chattanooga boasts access to top venues for rock climbing, road and mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking, white-water rafting, hang gliding and more, all within a short drive of downtown. There is also a 13-mile Riverwalk that runs along the Tennessee River, Tennessee’s Grand Canyon and the Tennessee River Gorge.
The Read House, a downtown property that reflects historic 1920s splendor while catering to modern tastes, will host the event, also serving as the basecamp for pre- and post-tours, day trips, city excursions and conference attendees’ other outdoor adventures.
“Our annual conferences are a must-attend event for many of our dedicated and talented OWAA members, providing them with an amazing opportunity to connect personally and professionally, while learning new skills and sharing knowledge in a rapidly evolving journalistic landscape” said Chez Chesak, OWAA’s executive director. “They also give our supporting brands and key adventure destinations a fantastic opportunity to pitch their stories and network with our vetted media.”
OWAA media members and supporting brands will connect with other professionals, uncovering opportunities to sell work, receive instructions on a variety of topics, create partnerships and hone communications skills.
Next year’s slate of speakers include:
- Marvin Cash (The Articulate Fly)
- Mike Floyd (Gray’s Sporting Journal) – member of an editor’s panel
- Robbie Kroger (Blood Origins)
- Heather Physioc (VML), speaking on SEO and storytelling
- Robin Thurston (Outside Inc).
Beyond networking and access in greater Chattanooga, event participation also includes access to:
- All keynote and breakout sessions, including a ‘Meet the Editors’ panel
- Two, three-hour ‘deep dive’ workshops to further skillsets
- Hospitality events
- Meals
- Unique events such as a fun run, photo scavenger hunt and storytelling night
