Making the Scouting experience the best it can possibly be is the reason we’re all here. Volunteers and professionals in the BSA funnel their energy and time into making sure youth get the programs they deserve. And a new face around the National Service Center – AJ Wilson – is working to make this mission easier than ever.

As the Boy Scout experience manager, AJ is tasked with making sure every Boy Scout from every part of the country is having an awesome time in the program. How does he do it? Find out by reading up on the leader in our 5 Questions series below.

What’s most exciting about your role as the Boy Scout experience manager?

AJ: I’m very excited to put together a picture of what the current Boy Scouting experience is across the BSA. There is variance in the individual Scouting experience based on the region of the country, size of the troop, and many other factors; there are also many commonalities that bind all Scouts together. We want to ensure that Scouts have the best Scouting experience possible, and that their leaders, volunteers and professional staff have the resources they need to provide that experience.  

Do you have a Scouting background? What drew you to the BSA?

AJ: I am an Eagle Scout from Troop 876 in Carrollton, TX, a Brotherhood Member of the Order of the Arrow, and come from a true Scouting family where both of my brothers are also Eagle Scouts. I have had the opportunity to participate in two Philmont treks, the Kanik winter program at Philmont, both the sailing and scuba programs at the Florida Sea Base, and a National Jamboree. Scouting has always played an important role in my life and helped me mature into the person I am today.    

What did you do before you took on your current role?

AJ: My previous vocation was as an officer in the United States Army. I had the immense pleasure of working with some of the most professional soldiers in the world and to continue building on the skills I first developed as a Scout. I had the opportunity to do some amazing and fun things that included jumping out of airplanes, rappelling from helicopters, climbing mountains, wading through swamps, and spending countless nights outdoors under the stars.  

Why is understanding the Boy Scout experience significant to Scouting? 

AJ: The Boy Scout experience is the essence of Boy Scouting.  My Boy Scouting experience included the adventures I had, the friends I made, and the life skills I learned from many wonderful adult mentors.  That was facilitated through the great programs the BSA has to offer and the dedication of many volunteers.  We need to be able to effectively communicate the life-changing value of the Boy Scout experience and help provide the resources for our volunteers to continue offering that experience to America’s youth. 

And, most importantly, what’s your go-to campout food?

AJ: I love all things that can be cooked in a Dutch oven, but it is a little hard to bring backpacking!  A good substitute is a pie iron, a few slices of bread and a can of pie filling to make a tasty, hot treat after a full day on the trail. 

Share #BSA5Questions

Catch up on the 5 Questions series with the BSA’s Market Intelligence Manager, Director of Health and Safety, Directors of STEM Programs, Order of the Arrow Director and NESA and Scouting Alumni Association Director. Save off the 5 Questions infographics and share them on your favorite social media platforms with the hashtag #BSA5Questions.