To be a female in the outdoor Industry...Interesting huh?. When I first started in the Industry I never really thought of there being a real divide if any. Growing up I always hung out with the boys (hunting, baseball, dirt bikes, track, cross country.. you name it). Needless to say, the idea was a new awakening to me.
-My first go round in the Recreation and Outdoor Education degree I noticed it in class. The girls kept quiet about there experiences for the most part or rebuttal against what another male typically had said. I knew one male and female who worked at a recognized outdoor company- same job title but the class discussion was mainly focused towards the males insights (instead of the teacher or class inquiring about her experiences).
-In technical and managerial experiences I have witnessed women not being put on field rosters while they do indeed carry field experiences-certifications-and time with a company. I have watched women be put second on the paired guide roster after a male because it's "proper" (this is in no way me saying that men shouldn't be praised for their hard work to be put on paper where they have earned). I myself have been put second and have sat back because that's where I felt my place once was. I NOW live and stand in the outdoor industry to have the passion to obtain knowledge from men and women/ I know where I stand and belong as a FEMALE in the outdoors as an equal. Together, women and men can be a powerhouse while being equally strong "outdoorsies" to lead others into nature. Together.
History of the mountaineering women: Women started to do mountaineering and climbing and BREAK the tradition for being the wife, mother, and house taker they were once known as. Society didn't understand or approve but still the "she's of the outdoors" persisted to break what and where they stood for the future of the Outdoor Industry.
Today, women are in the up-rise in the industry and there are no perfect words to title it. Women and men are working together, creating powerhouses, co-guiding together, women are breaking records, playing freaking football and letting their voices be heard. So many men are advocating for women in the industry which is setting the beautiful future for the recreation and outdoor industry.
I have many female-male inspirations and leaders in the Industry that make me realize where I stand next to them in the beautiful outdoors.
Thank you to my female powerhouses : My mum, Abbi Hearne, Brianna Madia, Jenny Fischer, Rachael Green, Sanni McCandless, Nina Caprez, Kelly Barrows, Savannah Cummins, Rebecca Caldwell, Mary Catherine Eden, Kara Maceross, Lynsey Dyer, Abby Westling, Megan Yuengling, Amanda Ravensbergen, Kirstin Whiting and many many more.
Let us all be united as a team. Men. Women. All.
During my recent experience at Irwin Guides Snowcat Skiing, I was pleasantly surprised by how many women ran the show there, as guides, snowcat drivers, and staff. (on and off the mountain) In fact, there was only 1 "dude" with us all day. Their skill, knowledge, and strength out there was amazing. I can't wait for the day I can request you as my guide, or at least spend some time travelling in the mountains knowing you got my back! Keep the dream alive Maddog! Three thumbs up!