Share our Voice! - Outdoor Career Pathways Survey from OCC

The Canadian Camping Association is proud to partner with organizations that promote the summer camp experience both directly and indirectly.

The Outdoor Council of Canada is working on a major project with Tourism and HR Canada to uncover the ways in which individuals become outdoor guides who contribute to our national identity and economy.

As we know, many outdoor guides get their start working at summer camp, and it is important that our voice is heard in this process.

Please pass along this post for anyone that meets the outdoor guide criteria below.

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Who are Outdoor Guides?

Outdoor Guides lead groups to outdoor locations to participate in activities such as whitewater rafting, hiking, interpretative walks, skiing, canoe expeditions, mountain climbing, etc. Their responsibilities include planning and leading outdoor trips – from a few hours to multiple days – and providing guests with an interesting experience in a manner that minimizes risk and environmental impact.

Who should take part in this survey?

You should take part in this survey if you:

• are currently working as a professional outdoor guide

• are training to work as a professional outdoor guide

• have previously worked as a professional outdoor guide

This includes present or past work that has been part-time, full-time, seasonal, on short-term contracts or through the gig economy.

Current students, teachers, and instructors are welcome to take part, and those who include outdoor guiding as part of their professional work as therapists or rehabilitation counsellors.

Who should NOT take part in this survey?

You should not take part in this survey if you are an outdoor enthusiast who has never been trained or worked as an Outdoor Guide, or are not currently training to work as an Outdoor Guide.

What is the goal of this survey?

The goal of this survey is to capture the range of experiences and training that go into the professional career path of an Outdoor Guide. Understanding these relationships will help support current and future guides with training requirements, credential recognition and professional development (e.g., advancement opportunities), as well as support employers with recruitment and retention of skilled workers.