Breaking Barriers: Women Thriving in the Outdoor Industry

The outdoor industry has long been perceived as a male-dominated space, but times are changing—and for good reason. From rugged mountain ranges to tranquil forests, women are claiming their place, showcasing leadership, expertise, and resilience. At Wilderness Expertise, we are passionate about creating opportunities for women to thrive, whether as professionals in the industry or as participants in life-changing programmes like the Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) Award.

Supporting Women in the Wilderness

As a company committed to inclusivity, Wilderness Expertise recognises the unique challenges women may face in the outdoors. We’ve taken proactive steps to ensure everyone feels equipped, respected, and empowered during their adventures. One practical example is the inclusion of sanitary products in our first aid kits as standard—an often-overlooked detail that can make a huge difference. It’s a simple yet impactful measure that demonstrates our commitment to supporting women and ensuring no one feels unprepared or excluded from outdoor experiences.

In our DofE programmes, this ethos extends to offering female-led expeditions and providing mentorship from women leaders in the industry. These efforts aim to inspire and support girls to see themselves as capable adventurers, skilled navigators, and resilient team players.

Why the Outdoor Industry Needs More Women

The benefits of having more women in the outdoor industry are undeniable. Diverse perspectives enhance problem-solving, leadership styles, and team dynamics. Women bring unique strengths, whether fostering inclusivity within groups or demonstrating collaborative leadership in challenging situations.

Furthermore, for girls and young women participating in outdoor programmes like DofE, seeing women in leadership roles is transformative. It reinforces the message that they, too, belong in these spaces—not as visitors but as leaders.

Encouraging Girls to Take Part in DofE

Outdoor experiences are invaluable for personal development, and the DofE Award offers an ideal platform for girls to build confidence, resilience, and independence. Navigating unfamiliar terrain, working collaboratively to set up camp, or mastering the art of orienteering—all these activities challenge stereotypes and empower young women to see themselves as capable and adventurous.

By ensuring our programmes are inclusive and supportive, we aim to break down barriers that may discourage girls from participating. For instance, addressing practical needs like menstrual care or providing female role models makes the outdoors more accessible and welcoming.

Women as Outdoor Industry Leaders

For women considering a career in the outdoor industry, the rewards are immense. It’s an opportunity to combine a love of nature with meaningful work that inspires others. Wilderness Expertise actively supports women in the industry by offering training, leadership opportunities, and a supportive community.

We believe that women bring essential qualities to outdoor education and adventure. Whether guiding expeditions, teaching survival skills, or mentoring the next generation of explorers, women are reshaping the narrative of what it means to lead in the wild.

Join the Movement

The outdoor industry is evolving, and women are at the forefront of this exciting change. At Wilderness Expertise, we’re proud to be part of this movement, fostering an environment where women feel empowered to explore, lead, and succeed.

Whether you’re a young girl embarking on your first DofE expedition or a woman looking to make your mark in the outdoor industry, the wilderness is yours to conquer. Let’s break barriers together and redefine what it means to thrive in the great outdoors.