Ryan Carlson
Black Mountain
American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA)
About
Ryan comes to the WEA with 20 years of experience leading, instructing, and innovating in the outdoor industry. In 2008, Ryan was hired by Camp Merri-Mac and Timberlake to design and launch Black Mountain Expeditions (BME), an adventure company delivering custom programs for independent schools, universities, and corporate teams internationally. Under Ryan’s leadership over the last 11 years, BME grew to serve hundreds of participants annually across the country. Prior to that, Ryan directed collegiate wilderness programs at Ohio Wesleyan University and Bethany College. Ryan's work in the industry is informed by his extensive field leadership experience. Since 2000, he has instructed activities including bacpacking, rock climbing, mountaineering, canoeing, kayaking, and outdoor leadership. His experience with WEA began in 1999 on his first WEA course as a college student. Ryan has instructed numerous WEA programs in partnership with affiliate programs. Ryan has served on the Board of Professional Climbing Instructor's Association and worked closely with WEA affiliate Coalition for Christian Outreach. Ryan has also taught as an adjunct faculty member in Montreat College's Outdoor Education department. Ryan holds an M.S. in Management and Leadership and B.S. in Outdoor Education from Montreat College. His certifications include the WEA Certified Outdoor Educator, American Mountain Guide Associaiton Certified Rock Instructor, Professional Climbing Instructor's Association Certifying Instructor, and Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics Master Educator.