Outdoor University

Outdoor University provides a hands-on educational experience for those employed in the Outdoor Industry. The 2005 event brought together nearly 70 vendors, 277 employees from 44 companies throughout 10 states.

Paul and Gary, from the Ben Meadows Team, attended this year's get-together held in Devil's Lake State Park near Baraboo, Wisconsin. Here's what they had to say:

This was an excellent day for both Gary and me. This workshop is set up to teach folks about how to be better prepared to sell different manufacturers' products.

There were plenty of opportunities to get our hands on a number of new products. Being able to test drive these products goes a long way in helping us better prepare to answer customer questions as well as make sure our catalog copy is precise and as helpful as possible.

Paul using a Brunton spotting scope to view climbers testing new climbing gear on the rock faces overlooking Devil's Lake State Park. A representative from Brunton is giving a solar power clinic in the background.


A view from the cliffs overlooking the Outdoor University set-up on the south shore of Devil's Lake.


Paul taking a break from the hike.


Paul and Gary discussing which trail to follow near the top of the cliffs.


Paul and Gary enjoying a well deserved break and an excellent bird's eye view of Devil's Lake.