Leadership & Board
The people behind America Outdoors bringing real-world experience to industry advocacy
Our Team & Board of Directors
America Outdoors is guided by experienced leaders and volunteer board members who bring deep industry knowledge, practical perspective, and a shared commitment to advancing outfitting and guided recreation nationwide.
The AO Team
The America Outdoors team leads day-to-day operations, advocacy, and member support, bringing policy expertise, industry experience, and a collaborative approach to advancing our mission and supporting outfitters nationwide.
Board of Directors
America Outdoors’ Board of Directors provides oversight and strategic leadership, ensuring the organization remains mission-driven, financially sound, and responsive to the industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are members of the Board of Directors selected?
Board members are nominated through a Nominating Committee appointed by the President. The committee recommends qualified candidates to the Board of Directors, which confirms the nominees before they are presented to the membership for election at the annual meeting. Directors and officers are then elected by a vote of members present at the annual meeting.
How long do Board of Director members serve?
Directors serve three-year terms, with terms staggered so that approximately one-third of the board rotates each year. Directors may serve additional terms if re-elected by the membership.
What are the main responsibilities of the Board of Directors?
The Board of Directors provides governance and strategic direction for America Outdoors. The board oversees the organization’s policies, finances, and overall direction while ensuring the association fulfills its mission to grow, protect, and support the outfitting industry.
How is the Board of Directors structured?
The Board may include up to eighteen directors and is designed to represent the outfitting industry broadly. It includes regional directors representing geographically diverse areas as well as at-large directors, with limits on the number of board members from any single state.
Who is eligible to serve on the Board of Directors?
Candidates must be current members in good standing and meet qualifications established by the Board. Directors must also agree to uphold the duties of care, loyalty, and obedience to the organization and support its mission, goals, and objectives.
How does the leadership team differ from the Board of Directors?
The Board of Directors focuses on governance, strategy, and policy guidance for the organization. The Executive Director and staff manage the day-to-day operations of America Outdoors and carry out the programs and initiatives approved by the Board.
How does America Outdoors ensure representation across the industry?
The board structure includes geographically diverse regional directors and at-large members to ensure broad representation across the outfitting community. This structure helps ensure the perspectives of different regions, recreation sectors, and business types are considered in the organization’s leadership.
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Membership connects you to national advocacy, practical tools, and a stronger voice for your business.
- Federal advocacy & permitting wins
- Toolkits, templates, and benchmarks
- Insurance partner discounts
- Member-only conference rates
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DEC 8-11, 2026 • Oklahoma City, OK
Conference & Expo
Where outfitters, guides, and industry leaders come together to learn, connect, and shape the future of the industry.