This summer, 30 emerging leaders from across the outdoor industry completed the second annual OIA Skip Yowell Future Leadership Academy, a six-month immersive learning experience. The goal of the program is to prepare, unite and give voice to the next generation of outdoor industry leaders.
Currently, OIA is looking for the next class of future leaders; 30 individuals from OIA member brands, retailers and organizations to participate in the 2018 class. Candidates should be director level and below and demonstrate a commitment to growing and bettering the outdoor industry.
During the course of the program, these individuals received personal and professional development opportunities that included education about important outdoor industry issues, leadership training and mentoring from industry veterans, and, of course, fun.
“I saw a return from the Skip Yowell Future Leadership Academy in so many ways: mentorship, network, learnings, hands-on capstone experience, retreats and more. The relationships that I got out of the program were the most valuable for me,” said Jake Wheeler, creative director, Roots Rated.
Applications and references are due September 15, 2017.  Read on for more information or contact Stasia Raines Walker.
The 2017 graduates are:
Aaron McCready, mechanical design engineer, CamelBak Products
Alia Salim, managing editor, Trust for Public Lands
Alli Rowe, environmental programs associate, Patagonia
Amanda Schreier, business process analyst & project manager, Sea to Summit
Brian Fisher, national sales manager, Grand Trunk
Bruce Dotterrer, industry analysis and account manager, NPD Sports
Christopher Fidler, director of product management, Burton Snowboards
Colin Moynihan, CFO/COO, Uncle Dan’s
Conor McElyea, product guru, Cairn
Courtney Hans, customer service supervisor new ventures, REI
Dana Howe, retailer relations manager, Grassroots Outdoor Alliance
David Duron, national sales manager, Toad&Co
Devin Hewlett, financial planning manager, Simms Fishing
Erin Weimer, PR and content manager, Sterling Rope Company
Jake Wheeler, creative director, RootsRated
Jill Sanford, freelance journalist
Johanna Andrews, design director outerwear & gear, Eddie Bauer
John McCauley, regional organizer, Outdoor Alliance
Josh Weichhand, brand marketing manager, Chaco
Justus Hyatt, Therm-a-Rest marketing manager, Cascade Designs
Kat Dierickx, CMO, Outdoor Project
Katie Hawkins, national accounts manager, Marmot
Katie Wade, account manager, Timbuk2