Oregon State University now offers an exciting training opportunity designed to enhance skills, increase diversity and inspire further innovation among professionals in the outdoor recreation industry.
The online course, FORE101: Foundations of the Outdoor Recreation Economy, provides a comprehensive introduction to the field. Learners will study the economic, social and environmental impact of the dynamic outdoor recreation industry, as well as its potential for driving positive change.
This self-paced course is being offered for free — a $400 savings — to anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of the outdoor recreation economy. Learners can use this knowledge to transform their love of the outdoors into a lucrative career.
Welcome to FORE101
Developed by Oregon State’s Center for the Outdoor Recreation Economy in close collaboration with OSU faculty and industry leaders, FORE101 covers a variety of topics including employment pathways, environmental stewardship, social justice, policy issues and accessibility best practices. The curriculum is divided into eight online lessons, each focusing on a critical segment of the outdoor recreation economy.
“After conversations with our partners in the outdoor sector, our team identified a need for an educational opportunity where learners can explore career opportunities in this growing field and learn the foundational skills that will set them up for success,” said Kate Porsche, director of the Center for the Outdoor Recreation Economy.
“We hope that offering it for free will reach a diverse audience who may not otherwise have considered a career in the outdoor recreation economy.”
Upon course completion, learners receive a digital badge to showcase their knowledge and commitment to professional development. The badge can be displayed on a learner’s social media networks, such as LinkedIn, or added to a résumé.
Uniquely positioned to drive industry growth
Oregon State’s Center for the Outdoor Recreation Economy emerged as the ideal developer for this innovative program, thanks to its extensive collaborations with industry partners and its dedication to research and training. The center’s deep connections with business leaders, policymakers and the research community informed the course content, which addresses the most pressing needs and challenges facing the outdoor recreation economy today.
“This training program can empower the outdoor recreation workforce and accelerate positive changes in the industry.”
By leveraging the expertise of OSU faculty members across multiple disciplines, including business, natural resources, public health and social sciences, the center offers a holistic approach to workforce development that considers the complex interplay of economic, environmental and social factors.
Moreover, the center — which is a part of Oregon State’s Division of Educational Ventures — is committed to relevant training, which ensures that the FORE101 curriculum is grounded in the latest industry insights and best practices.
Elevating the outdoor recreation sector
The outdoor recreation industry is a powerful force in the U.S. economy, accounting for more than $1 trillion in gross economic output and supporting 5 million jobs annually, according to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. As the sector grows, FORE101 can provide entry-level and seasoned outdoor recreation professionals with an understanding of potential career paths.
Developing a skilled and inclusive workforce is important not just for individual organizations to succeed, but it also benefits society, according to Porsche.
“One way we can make outdoor recreation spaces more welcoming is by helping to create a more diverse workforce,” she said. “It’s how we begin to change the landscape and make outdoor recreation spaces — be it trailheads, manufacturing or retail spaces — more accessible for folks who have historically been marginalized.”
Additionally, a thriving outdoor recreation sector can improve public health, strengthen communities and foster a deeper connection to the natural world.
“This training program can empower the outdoor recreation workforce and accelerate positive changes in the industry,” Porsche said. “One of our values is to ‘make the tent bigger.’ We strive to develop educational pathways to build a more diverse and equitable outdoor recreation economy.”
Encourage your employees, members and colleagues to enhance their skills and knowledge by enrolling in Foundations of the Outdoor Recreation Economy online course today.
