5/03/2006
00:37:15
Subject: going full time...Message:
Last year when I met Bob I told him my aim was to get the certifications, training, and experience necessary to change my career to full-time outdoor leadership. Bob immediately became my mentor and explained to me exactly how I could make this happen: WFR + Outward Bound + Instructing for NWSCC ODL = "ground floor" opportunities for just about anywhere else I may want to go. I followed his formula and it has resulted exactly as he said it would.
In January I started sending out applications and resumes to camps, adventure programs, conservation corps, and adventure tourism companies, from Vermont to California. I even looked into Canada and Alaska. One thing I learned from this application process is that you should start applying BEFORE January 1 for seasonal positions in the following spring/summer/fall. Nevertheless, I got a lot of positive responses. I interviewed over the phone with five different organizations, had one offer given and then retracted (when the organizational needs fluctuated unexpectedly), and I turned down another offer as I didn't think it was quite the right fit for me. Just this past weekend I received another offer, and this time I accepted it. On May 22 I begin working for Zion Adventure Company in Springdale, Utah (www.zionadventures.com). This is a full-time, permanent position. I will be working as a canyoneering/hiking guide, and outfitter and sales assistant in their retail store. I may be helping some with their web presence too. It seems like a perfect fit - I'll be doing thrilling field work in one of the most beautiful places in America, the Zion National Park area, plus I'll be getting my hands on a lot of technical equipment, and receiving fantastic additional training and experience in leadership, canyoneering, rock climbing, and outfitting.
NWSCC ODL has been a Godsend to me. You have given me exactly what I was looking for, and you did it fast. I'm sorry I am going to miss the ACA and the mountaineering course this summer, but I have found a worthy excuse. I want to thank everyone I've worked with/for at NWSCC, especially Bob and Chris. You've got a fantastic program and I hope it continues to grow and flourish.
I'll continue to check in here and via email & phone, but the next month is going to be crazy-busy for me. It's a huge transition for a guy in my stage of life. Keep me and my family in your prayers. Thanks, thanks, thanks so much!
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