College of the Rockies welcomed a group of subject matter experts on February 13 to explore innovative solutions that strengthen workforce training, sustainable practices, and local industry capacity in British Columbia’s growing outdoor recreation sector.

The session was conducted in collaboration with Kootenay Outdoor Recreation Enterprise (KORE).

Outdoor recreation contributes $4.8 billion annually to the provincial economy and represents approximately one point five percent of B.C.’s gross domestic product (GDP). It also plays a defining role in where people choose to live, with 61 percent of British Columbians reporting that proximity to outdoor experiences strong influences lifestyle decisions.

With such a significant economic and cultural impact, the College is taking a leadership role in advancing sustainable solutions, innovative gear repair infrastructure, and skills training aligned with industry needs.

The Rehub Outdoor Gear Workforce Development working group examined opportunities for micro-credentials, applied research, hands-on training, and the development of a permanent outdoor gear repair facility.

This facility has the potential to evolve into a space for small-batch manufacturing, dual use (civilian and military) prototyping, and collaborative applied research agreements with local and regional companies. It would also provide students with opportunities to gain practical experience in repair design, and product development.

“Outdoor recreation is a rapidly growing sector in the Kootenays and across B.C., and this working group is uniquely positioned to lead the way in building a sustainable future for outdoor adventure,” said College of the Rockies President Michael Crowe.

“By strengthening our partnership with KORE, we are advancing innovative solutions that support students, industry partners, and the long-term vitality of our region.”

The group also identified next steps for developing stackable micro-credentials, short courses, and experiential learning opportunities aimed at addressing regional skills gaps. These programs will support existing workers, newcomers to the sector, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking technical gear-repair skills.

“Times of great change require doing things differently – this partnership – a first of its kind in Canada, is foundational to not only workforce training, and economic development but for also supporting a world leading outdoor recreation economy in British Columbia,” said Matt Mosteller, KORE Board Chair.

“College of the Rockies and KORE are leading this and going deeper into what matters in the Kootenay Region, where everyone lives, works and plays in the outdoors.”

The working group will continue to meet as planning progresses to support the development of a sustainable outdoor gear repair and training ecosystem in the Kootenays.

Learn more about College of the Rockies at cotr.bc.ca

Lead image: The Rehub Outdoor Gear Workforce Development working group met at College of the Rockies on February 13 to explore innovative solutions for B.C.’s outdoor recreation sector. College of the Rockies photo

College of the Rockies

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