For the past three years, Evan Jewett served as Director of the Pemi West Program, our 4 week wilderness skills and leadership program in Olympic National Park. Evan first began his career with Pemi in 2010 as Head of the Woodshop. In his role as Pemi West Director, he brought a wealth of backpacking knowledge and leadership skills training to the program. Earlier this fall, Evan decided to step down from his position to explore other opportunities. We want to thank him for his years of most effective service and wish him the very best in his future endeavors.

After an extensive search, we are excited to introduce Dave Robb as the next Pemi West Director. Dave’s Pemi experience began in 2011, when he served as an instructor for the Pemi West Program. His involvement in the camping world began earlier as a Rock Climbing instructor at Kingsley Pines in Raymond, ME. Later, Dave served as both the Teen Leadership Instructor and Adventure Director, supervising and training the Adventure staff.

Dave was also part of the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) Sonoran Year Course, spending 135 days backpacking, sailing, and rock climbing, among other activities. Following this, Dave decided to pursue a career in teaching leadership and wilderness skills. That pursuit led Dave to Evergreen State College, where he earned his BA in Outdoor Education and Adventure Leadership. At Evergreen, he was instrumental in establishing the new Outdoor Program, designing and implementing lesson plans pertaining to life in the backcountry. He also served as the Program Coordinator for the Challenge Course, planning, constructing, and developing the High and Low Ropes Courses

In 2013, Dave served as a National Crew Leader for the Student Conservation Association (SCA), overseeing a team on a 30-day conservation project. His interest in trail maintenance and other outdoor related community service projects will be put to excellent use with Pemi West. Dave currently is an instructor for the High Trails Outdoor Science School in Big Bear California, where he teaches outdoor science classes and plans large group activities.

“I am very excited to be the new Director of Pemi West. It feels great to be part of a fantastic wilderness leadership program, with a rich history and large potential for growth. Olympic National Park is one of my favorite places on Earth, and I can’t wait to be immersed in the massive trees, and steep alpine of that incredible wilderness. To guide young adults through this paradise, while covering leadership, backpacking and mountaineering, natural history, and conservation service, is a privilege. I look forward to the adventure ahead.”

For the 2015 participants, we are confident that Dave’s leadership will make for an incredible program. Further information regarding the trip will be forthcoming from both Dave and me. If you have any questions, please be in touch. For now, we are delighted to welcome Dave back to the Pemi family, and we look forward to his leadership of Pemi West.

Kenny Moore
Assistant Director