David completed the Adventure Guide certificate this past spring. He moved from Mexico to Canada because he wanted to learn more about the adventure industry – “Doing the Adventure Guide Certificate was an incredible opportunity to start building up my career in the industry.”
Get to know Adam
What have you been up to since graduating from TRU?
I am passionate about water sports and had a fantastic time at TRU doing the whitewater kayaking progression and sea kayaking. I moved to Tofino to pursue an opportunity in the adventure industry. I am the Office Manager and a day guide at Paddle West Kayaking. In the winter, I work at Paddle West and with the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation as the Warriors Program Coordinator.
How does your job aid in your career aspirations?
I want to keep building a strong career in the adventure industry, and learning more about daily operations is my goal. I have the fantastic opportunity to guide and contribute to daily operations from a managerial perspective.
Taking everything you learned from the Adventure Guide Program, what skills helped you in your current role?
Leadership is an essential skill that I learned through the program, but most importantly, how to connect with the guests and deliver a high-quality experience.
What key advice can you share with our current students?
Working in the adventure industry is an astonishing experience. Spending time outside, connecting with nature, and meeting amazing people worldwide is life-changing. The key to starting a career in the industry is to be proactive, flexible, and open to learning from the most experienced guides or managers; it is worth trying.
Next time we’re in Tofino, we will be sure to stop by and see you, David.
Photo by William Desaulniers (Cert, 24′).
