Leaders Program
increasing equitable youth access & Diversity in outdoor leadership
A common question BCM youth participants ask at the end of their experience is: “what’s next?” Our Leaders Program offers BCM alumni an opportunity to advance their outdoor leadership skills, enhance their technical skills and access career pathways in the outdoor industry.
As a part of their year long engagement as Leaders, youth participate in career exploration discussions with outdoor industry leaders, attend skill-building workshops, participate in an advanced cohort-specific backcountry expedition, support other BCM programs as peer leaders and represent BCM at events.
All Leaders will receive scholarship and a full gear package to support their advancement of exploring the outdoors. Operated in-house, this selective program is only open to BCM alumni ages 16+. The Leaders Program is being piloted in BCM’s California and Colorado regions in 2023, with plans to expand nationwide in 2024.
program pillars
community building
The BCM program model harnesses the power of the outdoors to build community among youth. Leaders will continue to make connections and build their networks while advancing their skills as individuals and as a leadership cohort.
diversity & Inclusion
A core focus of the Leaders Program will be DEI in the outdoors & outdoor industry. Through dialogue, monetary and gear support and engagement in an organization wide DEI assessment, Leaders will have an opportunity to dive deeply into pressing issues facing BCM in relation to DEI.
advanced training
This program will offer participants a chance to expand their technical skills and knowledge of the outdoors.
- Advanced backcountry expeditions
- Wilderness First Aid Certification
- Facilitation & Public Speaking
- Risk Management
- Leadership Skills
career exploration
Participants in the Leaders Program will be exposed to leaders in the outdoor industry, internship opportunities and a chance to enhance their professional development. Through career exploration, career-specific workshops and networking, the program will contribute to increased representation and equity in the outdoors.
get involved
Applications for the Leaders Program are only open to BCM alumni. The 2023 Leadership Program applications have closed. Contact Program Director Fred Sproat with any questions at fred@bigcitymountaineers.org.
Meet the 2023 Leadership cohort
The 2023 Leadership Cohort will be announced in April.