Outdoor Academy
Outdoor Academy is a hands-on education and workforce development program designed to engage local youth with the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument and surrounding public lands. Through a clear pathway that includes in-school classes, immersive outdoor experiences, guide training, and paid internships, we prepare students for meaningful careers in outdoor recreation, conservation, and public land management.
Our goal is to build a local workforce rooted in stewardship, equity, and opportunity—empowering youth to live, work, and thrive in the landscapes they call home.
Youth Outdoor Education Leads To Local Jobs
From Classrooms to Careers in the Outdoors
The Outdoor Academy is a transformative program that equips local youth with the skills, experience, gear, and opportunities to thrive in the outdoor industry. Through a comprehensive pathway, we guide students from weekly public school classes to hands-on outdoor experiences, specialized guide schools, and paid internships, ensuring they gain the knowledge and credentials needed to become the next generation of outdoor professionals.
Internship Program Success
We’re proud of the success of our internship program, which is funded through Taos County ARPA funds. This year, we have four students placed in internships with local outfitters, including Taos Fly Shop and Far Flung Adventures, as well as an exciting placement with the U.S. Forest Service. One standout intern, who plans to study biology at Adams State University, is gaining invaluable experience in land management and biological research—an opportunity made possible through our program’s funding. This hands-on experience not only prepares students for future careers but also strengthens their connection to the public lands they love.
A Clear Career Pathway
The Outdoor Academy creates a clear pathway for local youth—from classroom learning to paid outdoor jobs. We start with weekly classes at Taos High School and Taos Pueblo Day School that introduce students to outdoor recreation, conservation, and guiding. Students then take part in field experiences on public lands to apply their learning hands-on.
Next, students attend our youth guide schools in rafting or fly fishing, where they receive intensive training, certifications, and all the essential gear—free to keep. The final step is placement in paid internships with outfitters or land agencies, giving students real-world experience and a foot in the door. Through this program, we’re building both career pathways and a new generation of public land stewards.