I
have been a member of OIWC for the past 10 years, and active on the
board for almost five (responsible for corporate partnerships.) In
looking back on the evolution and growth of OIWC, I personally could not
be more excited to be a part of OIWC.
It has rapidly become a
premiere organization supporting women’s professional development in the
outdoor, snow and bike industries. It provides a variety of
professional and emotional support to women of all ages and professions,
whether you are a newcomer or a seasoned veteran in the industries.
A
few years back, I was speaking with my friend Peter Devin, a former
Outdoor Retailer show director, discussing ideas on what OIWC can do to
support new women coming to the trade show. At the
end of the conversation he said, "Thank you for all that you provide my
exhibitors and attendees at OR. The recognition, guidance and education
that OIWC offers is invaluable.”
As
the Ad Director for Sierra magazine, I work and talk with a lot of
folks in our industry. I love it when I meet someone new at the show and
have a chance to invite them to an OIWC event. Afterwards, I always get
a tap on the shoulder or an email with a thank you for inviting them
and making them feel at home. The
atmosphere at our events makes members feel comfortable with the
ability to talk to a CEO one minute or an entry level sales rep the
next, enabling them to learn from others experiences, business savvy
and interests. I have been attending OIWC events for 10 years, and I
still always walk away having learned something new from my
conversations or having made a new connection to a peer or mentor. And
that's what it's all about. Helping women gain the comfort, confidence
and knowledge they need to succeed in their careers. If OIWC weren't
doing this, nobody would be, and for this reason I will continue to
support OIWC as a member, volunteer, and donor.