A Collaborative approached to Strengthening the Outdoor Workforce
The National Outdoor Recreation Workforce Consortium is a partnership between Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) and The Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative at WVU (Smith OEDC). This initiative brings together outdoor industry leaders and academic institutions to create workforce development strategies that strengthen and expand career opportunities in the growing outdoor recreation economy.
The National Outdoor Recreation Workforce Consortium continues to grow, welcoming additional academic institutions committed to developing a skilled and prepared outdoor workforce. These institutions bring expertise in outdoor recreation management, tourism, conservation, and technical training, helping bridge the gap between education and industry needs.
The Consortium was originally incubated by Oregon State University’s Center for the Outdoor Recreation Economy (CORE), which has played a key role in shaping outdoor workforce solutions for businesses, agencies, and educational institutions nationwide. OSU’s foundational work helped establish the framework for collaboration between higher education and the outdoor industry, laying the groundwork for the Consortium’s continued expansion.
In addition to the founding members, the Consortium now includes a diverse group of universities and colleges that contribute to research, workforce training, and career pathways in outdoor recreation.
Other participating schools include:
These institutions play a critical role in shaping the future of outdoor workforce development, ensuring that students, professionals, and businesses have access to the skills and training necessary to thrive in the growing outdoor economy.
Institutions interested in joining the Consortium can reach out to ORR at cperkins@recreationroundtable.org to learn more.
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Hear the latest from the Smith OEDC about West Virginia's Outdoor Economy, tools to get your community engaged in the process, and opportunities to connect with other outdoor stakeholders in West Virginia.
To address population loss
We envision a West Virginia where all of our communities are vibrant and thriving
To empower West Virginia's communities and partners to advance the state's economy and enhance quality of life through outdoor recreation
Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative
Director of Outdoor Economic Development
Andy supports West Virginia’s efforts to build a stronger, more vibrant outdoor economy and communities through his role as the Director of Outdoor Economic Development at the Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative.