Meet the team

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Aaron Lieberman
Executive Director

Born and raised where the Rogue meets the Applegate Rivers in Southwest Oregon, Aaron's roots run deep in wild water. He's guided whitewater and fishing trips around the world - from the Klamath to Tunisia - but it wasn't until he joine Idaho Outfitters & Guides Association (IOGA) that he discovered his strenght in advocacy and leadership. 

At IOGA, Aaron led during a period of transformation: doubling membership, tripling marketing funding, secruing landmark state reforms, navigating pademic recovery, and embedding outfitter voices in conservation policy. He served on the Governor's Salmon Workgroup, influenced federal initiatives, and engaged in national processes regarding wildlife and public lands. 

Aaron's philosophy mirrors AO's mission: to grow, serve, and protect outfitters at scale. He believes in the power of outfitting as stewardship - where boots on riverbanks and campsites spark broader conservation action and advocates. His vision is rooted in fostering inclusion, sustainability, and united advocacy for outdoor professionals. 

Contact Aaron

 
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Caryn Short
Membership Specialist

Caryn Short lives in Central Illinois with roots in Wisconsin, where she grew up learning to love and respect the outdoors. She has a background in business and leadership involving the outdoor, fitness, and foodservice industries. Caryn spends as much of her free time as possible with Olive, her beloved four-legged hiking partner, but also loves to travel with friends. Some of her favorite trips include backpacking Isle Royal, kayaking Bennett Lake (Canada), rafting the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon, and hiking in the Grand Tetons.

Contact Caryn

 

 
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Kim Thomas 
Administrative Specialist

Kim Thomas is no stranger to the outdoors. As a native of East Tennessee, she has experienced some the best outdoor areas the United States has to offer. Prior to joining America Outdoors in 2018, she has had careers as a computer programmer, inside sales, tax preparation, bookkeeping and office management. Most of her free time is spent traveling and being outdoors with her family. 

Contact Kim