Career Center

Outdoor Industry

The outdoor industry is an exciting and vibrant field that encompasses a wide range of activities and opportunities for those who have a passion for the outdoors. It revolves around outdoor recreation, adventure, and environmental conservation. Whether you're interested in designing innovative outdoor gear, organizing adventure trips, managing outdoor facilities, or promoting sustainability in the industry, the outdoor industry has something for everyone. Pursuing a career in this industry allows you to combine your love for nature with your professional aspirations. By immersing yourself in the outdoor industry, you'll have the chance to make a positive impact, connect people with nature, and foster a deeper appreciation for the environment.

EXPLORE CAREERS

Guide Leaders

Guide leaders are instrumental in leading and instructing outdoor activities and adventures. They possess in-depth knowledge and expertise in specific outdoor pursuits such as hiking, climbing, skiing, or wilderness expeditions. Outdoor adventure guides lead groups on various outdoor excursions, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of participants while sharing their knowledge about the natural environment and local culture. Types of guide leaders can include hiking, rock climbing, ski/snowboarding, and wilderness trip leaders. 

Outdoor education professionals are driven by a deep passion for teaching and inspiring people to connect with the natural world. They are dedicated to creating and delivering educational programs and experiences that cultivate environmental awareness, a deep appreciation for nature, and the development of outdoor skills. These professionals design comprehensive curricula and lead engaging outdoor education programs for schools, organizations, and community groups. They hold various roles such as outdoor educators, environmental interpreters, nature center coordinators, camp counselors, and outdoor program facilitators. Through their expertise and enthusiasm, they strive to instill a love for the outdoors and promote environmental stewardship among learners of all ages.

Environmental conservation and stewardship careers are dedicated to preserving and protecting the natural environment. Professionals in this field, such as park rangers, conservation officers, environmental scientists, wildlife biologists, and sustainability consultants, play a vital role in safeguarding ecosystems and promoting sustainable practices.

This category includes careers that cater to outdoor tourism and hospitality. It involves roles such as tour operators, adventure travel planners, destination marketers, outdoor event coordinators, campground managers, and eco-lodge operators. Professionals in this field work to create memorable experiences for travelers and promote outdoor destinations.

In the outdoor industry, sales and retail professionals play a vital role in connecting outdoor enthusiasts with the gear, equipment, and apparel they need for their adventures. Retail store associates work directly with customers, providing personalized assistance, and product recommendations, and ensuring a positive shopping experience. Sales representatives, on the other hand, work closely with outdoor brands and manufacturers to promote and sell their products to retail stores. They build relationships with store owners, negotiate sales agreements, and provide training to retail staff on product features and benefits. This includes roles like retail store associates, sales representatives, and account managers.

Marketing and communications professionals in the outdoor industry play a crucial role in promoting outdoor products, services, and experiences. They develop strategies to reach target audiences, create compelling content, manage digital marketing campaigns, and engage with customers to build brand awareness and loyalty. These roles include marketing managers, digital marketers, content creators, social media managers, and public relations specialists.

Outdoor event management careers involve organizing and managing outdoor events, festivals, and competitions. Event planners, race directors, festival coordinators, adventure race organizers, and outdoor program managers handle logistics, coordinate vendors, manage participant registrations, and ensure smooth event operations. They create memorable and engaging experiences for participants and spectators alike.

show all / hide all

FIND OPPORTUNITIES

Utilize these recommended resources to help you explore different employers within this industry. Please note this is not an exhaustive list of resources and is just a starting point!

To help you explore different roles within the outdoor industry, check out a few potential employers below.

DEVELOP YOUR INTEREST

There are many options to get involved at Colorado College and develop your career competencies. Get involved to deepen your understanding of an industry and help you decide if a job in this field is of interest to you. Planning your experience can feel daunting, so check out some industry specific ideas both on and off campus below. As you plan, meet with the Advising Hub to discuss your major and academic interests to ensure you’re on track for your academic plans as well.

Activities

  • Consider earning Certifications offered through the Ahlberg Leadership Institute (ALI). Certifications offered include ACA Swiftwarer Rescue, AIARE Avalance I & II Rec, AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor, AMGA Single Pitch Instructor, CPR, First Aid & AED, CPR Instructor, and Wilderness First Responder. 
  • Complete training through Ahlberg Leadership Institute (ALI) such as Overnight Leader, Backpacking Leader, Mountain Bike Leader, Rock Climbing Leader, and Backcountry Ski Leader.
  • If you are interested in the intersection of the outdoors and teaching, consider participating in TREE semester through the education department.

show all / hide all

CURIOUS TO LEARN MORE

 

Contact the Career Center

CareerCenter@ColoradoCollege.edu
719.389.6893
Physical Address: 1130 N. Cascade Avenue, Morreale House, Colorado Springs, CO 80903
instagram iconfacebook iconlinkedin icon
Handshake-Schedule Appointment
Report an issue - Last updated: 11/19/2025