AORE Announces Schedule for the 2025 Outdoor Professional Conference
AORE Announces Schedule for the 2025 Outdoor Professional Conference
The Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education (AORE) has announced the official schedule for the 2025 Outdoor Professional Conference (OPC), taking place November 4–7, 2025 in San Diego, California.
As the premier national event for professionals who facilitate participant-facing outdoor recreation, OPC brings together leaders from higher education, nonprofit organizations, private sector programs, and public land agencies. The 2025 conference will feature over 40 education sessions, curated networking opportunities, and dynamic plenaries, all designed to build professional knowledge and strengthen industry connections.
The conference begins on Tuesday, November 4, with a Meet & Mingle Open House—an informal networking event designed to help attendees ease into the week. Participants can check-in, update their headshot, connect with AORE’s Board of Directors, learn about organizational updates, and even volunteer with a meaningful cause by sorting books for NOBA. This gathering also offers a valuable chance to get familiar with the conference space before sessions begin.
On Wednesday, the first full day of programming includes a welcome from the AORE Board of Directors and an intentional networking session to help attendees build relationships and launch the OPC Team Challenge, a friendly competition culminating at the Rooftop Cinema Club Social Thursday evening. This unique social will be an opportunity for attendees to unwind with popcorn, skyline views, and a screening of A Walk in the Woods—or simply relax and connect over games and conversation.
The conference will close with a keynote from Chris Stevenson, founder of the Empower Group, titled “Maximizing Potential: A Journey to Empowerment.” Known for his motivational and practical style, Stevenson will speak to the core of personal leadership and professional growth.
Again in 2025 attendees will benefit from free learning credits, provided through a partnership with American Trails. Eligible sessions will meet credit requirements based on length and participant engagement.
AORE is once again proud to co-locate with the Athletic Business Show, offering attendees expanded access to additional sessions, networking, and an exhibit hall that draws more than 2,300 professionals annually.
Registration is now open at www.aore.org/OPC, with early bird pricing available through July 18. Group registration discounts are also available.
Visibility and Sponsorship Opportunities
Exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities are available, including high-visibility options such as A/V branding, refreshment sponsorships, and advertising during the Rooftop Cinema Social. Nonprofit discounts are offered for expo booths. Learn more in our 2025 Opportunity Guide
For media inquiries or additional information, contact nationaloffice@aore.org.
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To stay up-to-date on OPC news and learn more, please visit aore.org/OPC.
The Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education (AORE) is the leading organization in the United States dedicated to serving the needs of outdoor recreation professionals and educators from academia to private sector programs. With AORE, members have a framework to interact with public land managers and influence decisions that affect the human-powered outdoor recreation industry. AORE serves as a collective voice to and for its members regarding topics of regional and national concern.
If you are looking for additional ways to get involved, grow your network, and boost your resume, AORE is always looking for volunteers for the event. Please fill out this form to sign up to be a volunteer.