Summary:

Hometown: North Branford, Connecticut

Background: BA in Outdoor Education, Leadership and Tourism with a concentration on Adventure Education at Vermont State University; 5 years in Outdoor Education

Certifications: Wilderness First Responder and CPR, Leave No Trace Level 2 Educator, AIARE Level 1 & 2 Avalanche, AAI Professional Level 1 Avalanche, Project Wild Training

 

Originally from North Branford, Connecticut, Andrew grew up as a Boy Scout where he discovered the amazing ability for the outdoors to build lasting friendships and community. His love for hiking, skiing, and backpacking since flourished and drew him North where he studied Outdoor Education at Vermont State University and began his journey as an educator. Here, he had the opportunity to further explore hiking, backpacking, backcountry skiing, rock and ice climbing, and teaching local school districts and after school programs. After graduating in spring of 2025 with personal experience in the mountains and
professional experience with youth groups, Andrew went on to lead multiple 15 and 18-day trips in Northern California from the Redwoods to the Shasta-Trinity alps and beyond. Since, he has spent his last winter working and skiing in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah and is eager to spend another summer exploring and adventuring!

 

The Deeper Dive:

What drew you to the Bold Earth community?

I came to Bold Earth as I truly believe the outdoors has a special way of pushing comfort zones and connecting people. I have participated in several facilitated multi-day trips that have drawn me to meet incredible people in brilliant places. The opportunity to be on the other side and facilitate an adventure that allows students make lasting memories and friendships is one of the greatest outcomes I can ask for professionally. Going on a Bold Earth trip in general is certainly an adventure, and I am eager to have students step out of their comfort zones together to build trust, friendship, and confidence.

 

What is your Bold Earth superpower?

My Bold Earth superpower is certainly my ability to be a complete goofball at times on our adventures. I think the outdoors is a wonderful place where we often need to be managing risk and looking out for each other. However, I will always take up the opportunity to goof around and be silly with students and leaders. Weather it is on a backpack or hike, at the store, or during a day trip, there is always an opportunity to let our guards down and laugh.

 

What is your adventure must-have?

My adventure must have is my hacky sack! There are very rare occasions where you will find me without it; “Phone, wallet, keys, hacky sack” is more accurate on how I travel. I am always happy to play a fun game or just do some juggling with whoever wants to join. I think a hacky sack is easily the most universal and fun piece of gear I will have on me for every trip to fill a dull moment with laughter.

 

What song would you add to the van playlist?

My song add to the van playlist would certainly be Home by LCD Soundsystem. This song just simply has a beat that gets people excited and dancing and always helps me start a high energy day.