Department: Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative
Andy’s business card says Director, however he is fortunate to serve many roles - a father and husband, a catalyst, salesman, mentor and advocate, a project manager, board member, outdoor adventurer, a strategic planner and visionary.
Today, Andy supports West Virginia’s efforts to build a stronger, more vibrant outdoor economy and communities through his role as the Director of Outdoor Community Development at the Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative.
Over his career, Andy has held many roles supporting communities, businesses and nonprofits in leveraging their public lands and outdoor economy to enhance their quality of life, grow their local economy and provide a better visitor experience. Prior to joining the Smith OEDC, Andy supported Western North Carolina as the MADE X MTNS Director, a regional economic and community development initiative and in the Summer of 2020, Andy joined the Outdoor Gear Builders of Western North Carolina as their first Executive Director where he supported the organization in their mission to cultivate, connect and support the community of outdoor industry professionals. Andy has also held roles leading his own consulting company helping communities and organizations harness the catalytic power of outdoor recreation in order to foster vibrant active cultures and as the Director of Programs at the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA). He is a passionate volunteer dedicated to serving nonprofits, is the past Board Chair of Bikepacking Roots and held numerous roles in other outdoor and cycling related non-profits over the years.
When not working to grow outdoor communities in West Virginia, you can find him on the local trails with friends, traveling with his family in their sprinter named Van-Go, and paddling and fishing the many local rivers and streams.