Kim Coupounas, co-founder and CEO of GoLite, is the recipient of the Outdoor Industries Women’s Coalition 2006 Pioneering Woman Award. GoLite designs and produces ultra-lite and lightweight apparel and equipment.

“Receiving this award is a privilege,” Coupounas said. “The OIWC plays such a key role for women in the outdoor industry, and to be recognized by them for my work is truly an honor.”

Coupounas received a check for $1,000 to be donated to the organization of her choice. She selected The Women’s Wilderness Institute, a nonprofit organization with the mission of strengthening the courage, confidence, and leadership qualities of girls and women, through the challenge and support of group wilderness and community-based experiences.

As the co-founder and CEO of GoLite, Coupounas has played a major role in both creating products that address women’s needs, as well as working closely with her female employees to ensure their personal and professional success. In addition to her efforts at GoLite, Coupounas also serves on the Board of the Outdoor Industry Association, and before that was an Outward Bound instructor for all-female courses.

Coupounas will be presented with her award and the $1,000 check during the OIWC Gathering at Abravanel Hall at the Outdoor Retailer Winter Market on Monday, January 30th, from 6-9:30pm. During the Gathering, hear from Bernadette McDonald and Arlene Blum, writers and adventurers who will share stories of their best (and worst) moments, what motivates them, how their adventures and accomplishments have prepared them to succeed, and how they balance family, work and play. Ann Krcik, last year's PWA recipient, will moderate the discussion.

The runners-up for the Pioneering Woman Award are Bernadette McDonald and Andrea Dillon.