As Massachusetts invests in outdoor recreation as a driver of economic growth, Greenfield Community College is poised to prepare the workforce and professional expertise the industry needs to succeed.

Outdoor recreation already contributes more than $14 billion annually to the Massachusetts economy and supports more than 107,000 jobs. Nearly three years after the Commonwealth established the Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation (MOOR), GCC has established itself as a key educational partner in strengthening the state's outdoor recreation industry.

Adventure Education and Outdoor Leadership Department Chair Bob Tremblay has championed the connection between education and the outdoor economy since 1980. "Now that outdoor recreation is finally being recognized as an important economic sector, we are ready to support it with meaningful career pathways and a professional workforce to support that growth.”

GCC offers multiple entry points into the profession. Students may pursue an Associate in Science degree in Adventure Education, earn a certificate in Outdoor Leadership or take individual courses to receive nationally recognized skills certifications without enrolling in a degree or certificate program. This flexible model allows people at every stage of career to gain the credentials they need.

The college also serves as a convener for the outdoor recreation industry. Through its annual Outdoor Industry Summit, GCC brings together businesses, nonprofits, municipalities and state agencies. The summit now attracts more than 90 industry leaders and has established GCC as a trusted hub for collaboration, innovation and workforce planning across Massachusetts' outdoor recreation sector.

As the industry evolves, so do GCC's programs. Building on the successful launch of its Intro to Mountain Biking course in 2025 and its Mountain Bike Instructor and Patroller course in 2026, the college continues to expand hands-on training in outdoor leadership, wilderness medicine, climbing, paddlesports and emergency care.

By anticipating emerging industries and aligning education with workforce needs, GCC will continue to strengthen businesses, foster strategic partnerships and help position western Massachusetts as a leader in the Commonwealth's growing outdoor recreation economy.