OIWC is seeking nominations for its Pioneering Woman Award and First Ascent Award in both the Outdoor and Snow Industries. The organizations asks that nominations be submitted  by Dec. 3, 2012.



With a goal to create visible role models for the Outdoor and Snow Industries current and future leaders, OIWC’s Pioneering Woman and First Ascent Awards honors two individuals in each industry who demonstrate exceptional leadership. These women visibly serve as powerful role models for the Outdoor and Snow Industries corporate members and workforce and are personally committed to the advancement of women.


OIWC’s Pioneering Woman and First Ascent Awards celebrate the visible impact of on the advancement of women both inside and outside the companies where they work. 


The nomination process is supported by interviews and references. Awards will be presented at the OIWC Thought Leaders Breakfast on the 3rd day morning of the Outdoor Retailer Winter Market (ORWM) and the SnowSports Industries America (SIA) SnowShow. This is your opportunity to recognize those women making a difference!

Pioneering Woman Award


The Pioneering Woman Award recognizes a “maven of mentoring,” someone who has furthered the vision of the OIWC by demonstrating an outstanding commitment to mentoring female colleagues. A Pioneering Award winner is a woman who has paved the way for her team, other women in her company, and set an example for the entire industry. Past winners include Sally McCoy, CamelBak CEO & President, Donna Carpenter, Burton Co-Founder & President, and Penina Bush, Senior Manager, Shimano American Corporation.

First Ascent Award


The First Ascent Award acknowledges an industry newcomer who demonstrates strong leadership potential. OIWC created the perfect complement to the Pioneering Woman Award with its First Ascent Award. This award recognizes a woman new to the industry who demonstrates strong potential for leadership, and furthers the vision of OIWC by increasing visibility of talented young women at lower levels in an organization, thereby facilitating their leadership development on their journey to future leadership. Past winners of this award include Devon Sibole of outside PR, Liz Stahura of Leisure Trends Group, Clarissa Finks of Burton.


Take 5 minutes of your time to nominate someone deserving you know today, learn more about each award, and read about past recipients. Deadline to submit a nomination is Dec. 3, 2012.