Please join us in welcoming Taylor to ITA’s staff! With a background in outdoor education and stewardship—and a deep belief in the power of trails to shape lives—Taylor brings experience, passion, and heart to our work with youth. We’re grateful to have her on the team and excited for the energy, curiosity, and commitment she brings to connecting young people with Idaho’s trails and landscapes.

What is your background in? What are some of the things you enjoy doing for fun?

I found my way into outdoor work by following a sense of wonder and a desire to learn from the land itself. I’ve worked as a crew member, leader, and coordinator, and each role has reinforced my belief in the power of hands-on, place-based stewardship. I’m a proud University of Idaho alum with a Master of Natural Resources in Environmental Education and Science Communication, drawn to the place where learning and the outdoors meet. Outside of work, I love weightlifting, fly fishing, and climbing—long days outside that end with good food, shared stories, and sore legs. I’m happiest when I’m a little dirty, a little tired, and surrounded by mountains.

Why did you want to work for ITA? What are you looking forward to in this role?

I was once a young person whose path was reshaped by programs like this- time on trail, shared work, and the chance to belong somewhere outside the walls of a classroom. That experience showed me how powerful it can be to connect youth with the land and with each other. I’m drawn to the mission of keeping Idaho’s trails open and accessible for all, and I love that this role lets me spend days outside, learning, laughing, and working alongside others. I see a growing need for programs that give young people meaningful educational opportunities, access to time outside, and hands-on technical skills training.  I’m excited to help build those bridges- supporting crew leaders, creating new pathways into natural resource management, and helping youth discover the outdoors as a space where they can grow, explore, and belong.

Why do you enjoy working with youth?

I love working with youth because they bring a spark of curiosity, honesty, and courage that reminds me why this work matters. They are the future of Idaho, and their growth, confidence, and connection to place matter now more than ever. Watching someone learn a new skill, gain confidence, or discover a sense of belonging on the trail is incredibly rewarding. There’s a kind of magic in seeing young people push themselves, ask questions, and connect with each other, with the land, and with their own potential. It’s a privilege to help create experiences where they feel capable, supported, and inspired to grow, explore, and take pride in the work they do.

Most memorable backcountry experience (Looking for a funny/scary/interesting story here!)

My first night on trail with my Semester in the Wild students was absolute chaos- in the best way. We’d just started our 40-mile hike down Big Creek toward Taylor Ranch and had to bear-hang a week’s worth of food for 18 people. Between wrestling food-filled packs, broken ropes, and an aim so bad we were all grateful we weren’t a sports team, we spent nearly two hours under headlamps trying to make it work. Students were laughing, crying, hollering, and cheering for each other all at once. It was a full-on circus. But in the middle of the mess, something clicked. That night, as ridiculous as it was, became our first real bonding moment and set the tone for three incredible months at Taylor Ranch- full of adventure, learning, and more than a little laughter.

Why are trails worth protecting?

Trails are the threads that weave people and place together. They are gateways to adventure, connection, and discovery; spaces where youth can learn, communities can gather, and anyone can find a moment of inspiration in the wild. Protecting trails means safeguarding these experiences, honoring the stories of those who came before, and creating opportunities for those who will follow. When we care for trails, we care for the people and places they connect, ensuring that the joy, challenge, and wonder of the outdoors remain accessible to all.