Maine outdoor industry group taps student input on workforce

Photo / Courtesy of Maine Outdoor Brands From right, Liz Duffy, operations manager for Maine Outdoor Brands, talks to students at a University of New England career fair in April.

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By Renee Cordes

What better way to build Maine’s outdoor recreation economy than to tap into the expertise — and enthusiasm — of future industry leaders?

That’s the thinking behind a student advisory board by Maine Outdoor Brands, a Portland-based trade group with 200-plus members, from early-stage startups to established brands including Sea Bags and L.L.Bean.

Student advisers will represent their schools and communities while giving input on initiatives that support education, workforce development and broader engagement with young people.

Funded in part by a grant from the Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation, the board is envisioned as a tool to inspire more young people to pursue careers in the state’s $3.4 billion outdoor recreation industry.

“Our goal is to not only provide students with a voice in shaping the future of Maine’s outdoor industry, but also to give them valuable opportunities to learn, connect and grow within this thriving sector,” said Brian Threlkeld, membership director of Maine Outdoor Brands, a Portland-based trade association.

The board “represents the next wave of talent that will keep Maine at the forefront of outdoor innovation and stewardship,” he added.

In its inaugural year, the student board will consist of eight students enrolled in outdoor recreation-focused degree programs at colleges and universities across the state.

Board members

Maine Outdoor Brands is led by Executive Director Jenny Kordick, a Mainebiz 40 Under 40 honoree in 2023.

Inaugural members of the organization’s student advisory board include: Ashly Emerson, Husson University; Emma Wallace, Washington County Community College; Brendan Curley, University of New England; Skye Cotnoir, University of Maine at Farmington; Patrick McKenney, University of Maine at Farmington; Emily Kidd, University of Maine; Bence Rosenberg, University of Maine; and Ava Richardson, University of New England.