So You Want to Manage a Climbing Wall?

Advancing the Outdoor Professional

Check out our first live recording of a podcast while at the 2024 Outdoor Professional Conference in New Orleans. This conversation focuses on the management of a university climbing wall at James Madison University (JMU), highlighting the roles of student staff, the daily operations, and the importance of community and inclusivity in climbing. The discussion includes insights into the training and requirements for staff, the costs associated with training, and the various programs offered to engage the climbing community.

Our guests dive into the intricacies of managing climbing walls and organizing climbing competitions within outdoor recreation programs. It emphasizes the importance of building inclusive partnerships, effective training for staff, and adapting programs to meet the needs of diverse student populations. The conversation also covers the logistics of running successful competitions, the collaboration between clubs and recreation programs, and the significance of safety training and risk management in climbing activities.

Meet Trey Smith

Trey Smith currently works as the Interim Assistant Director of Advenuture Programs at James Madison University. He oversees the climbing program, outdoor adventure trips, and the adventure based orientation programing. Prior to working in a college setting, Trey has worked as the director of an environmental education center, as a summer camp director, and as a guide.

Meet Amber Smith

Amber is a student at James Madison University, pursuing a B.S. in Kinesiology and Photography with a Pre-Athletic Training focus, is preparing to continue their education in JMU’s M.S. of Athletic Training program. Amber currently serves as the Adventure Manager/Route Setter and a Group Exercise Instructor at JMU UREC, as well as an Athletic Training Intern. Additionally, Amber works as an instructor at Sportrock Climbing Centers. A passionate climber, they are a member of the JMU Climbing Team and have previously held leadership roles as the JMU Club Climbing President and Social Chair.

Meet Aidan O'Rourke

Aidan O'Rourke is a senior engineering major at James Madison University. Since sophomore year, Aidan has worked for University Recreation in the Adventure Center and currently serves as the Routesetting Manager in his final year of college. An avid climber for the past seven years, Aidan has had the opportunity to further develop his skills in the outdoors through his work at the Adventure Center.