Sharpen Your Outdoor Acumen with These Fall Conferences

Back-to-school season is almost here for the kids, so why not use the time to brush up on your own knowledge? We’re bringing you an inside look at two fall conferences that are sure to sharpen your operational Scouting know-how. And the best part—they’re both hosted at the beautiful Philmont Training Center!

The Properties Course: The Business of Running a Camp: September 17—23, 2017

 Philmont Training Center (PTC) is offering a chance to learn the operational ins and outs behind one of Scouting’s most iconic activities—camping! 

Join the PTC team for a week-long exploration of the business fundamentals behind BSA’s camping programs. Aimed at both professionals and volunteers who have planning responsibilities for council properties, this interactive seminar serves as the companion to the Design and Development of Camping Properties course.

Participants will gain a unique perspective on the content and nature of the BSA’s outdoor program in the context of a product as they explore tactics for product delivery, including price, promotion, and position. Upon completion, you’ll be able to create a sound plan for the business of running a camp in your council!

For more information, visit The Properties Course: The Business Of Running A Camp on PTC’s conference website.

2017 National Outdoor Conference: September 27—October 1, 2017

This year’s National Outdoor Conference features thought-provoking keynote presentations, outdoor and camping exhibits, a food show, and more than 90 elective sessions on virtually every subject related to outdoor programming. As if these weren’t enough reasons to attend, opportunities to see the Philmont backcountry are also planned throughout the event!

Sessions will be arranged in “trails,” such as Program, Enterprise Risk Management, Facility Management, Human Resources, Management and Administration, Marketing and Promotions, and National High-Adventure Bases to help you choose the best elective lineup.

Keynote speakers and guests include Chief Scout Executive Michael Surbaugh, Eagle Scout and CEO of the American Camp Association Tom Rosenberg, national motivational speaker Ken Wasco, Dr. Deborah Gilboa, and Dr. Jeanne Arnold. Needless to say, the 2017 National Outdoor Conference is a prime networking opportunity for professionals and volunteers involved with council outdoor programs.

For more details, check out the official conference brochure (PDF) from Philmont Scout Ranch.

Looking for more? You can find the full PTC conference schedule here.