Whether you enjoy hiking, camping or environmental preservation, your hobbies could lead to a job in the outdoor industry. At CU Boulder, there are many ways to gain experience and launch your career in the great outdoors. Here are some tips to get started.
Join outdoor organizations
The Rec Center’s Outdoor Program allows students to get involved and meet others with similar interests. Take trips and courses, develop wilderness and adventure skills at workshops and explore Colorado’s great outdoors with equipment rentals.
Getting involved with the Outdoor Program can also help you develop necessary professional skills for working in the outdoor industry. These include communication, teamwork, adaptability and leadership.
There are also many student organizations and groups that revolve around the outdoors. If you’re not sure where to start, stop by the Center for Student Involvement for help.
Use your resources
Look for opportunities to connect with community or outdoor organizations in your desired field. Find opportunities through:
- Student Employment: Log in and search using keywords like “outdoor”
- Handshake: Log in and search by industry, job function or keyword
- Volunteer Resource Center: Search the calendar or organization database
Meet others in the industry
Between landscapers, forest rangers, environmental scientists, retailers, ski instructors and more, there are many occupations in the outdoor industry! Start connecting with outdoor industry professionals and ask questions about their career path and skills necessary for the field you’re interested in. Career Services can help you find ways to make these connections.
Explore majors
There are many majors and programs that can help you prepare for a future in working outside. These include:
Check with your advisor about how these programs could fit into your academic journey.
