Key Takeaways from the Wilderness Risk Management Conference 2024
While representing Cornerstone Safety Group at the WRMC this year, we were also able to take part in some fascinating discussions with both members and industry leaders on their fresh insights. We like to look at these opportunities for in-person connection as more than just an event for learning about industry trends; it’s a hub where the evolving landscape of risk management intersects with the innovations and challenges of travel.
Here are a few of the themes and insights that resonated with us, along with reflections from the team on what these mean for our work and yours.
Refining Organizations’ Scope of Risk and Safety
The traditional emphasis on physical safety has now broadened to include topics like diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and behavioral issues. This aligns with a growing understanding that risk management must encompass the whole person and community experience—not just the physical hazards of wilderness activities. Our team was inspired by the conversations around creating spaces where everyone feels safe, valued, and understood.
This year’s WRMC felt like an inflection point between two eras: one held by the “old guard” and another brimming with fresh ideas from a younger generation. This emerging generation brings new energy and a desire for innovation, and it’s exciting to witness the industry embracing change. For Cornerstone, this means staying adaptable and seeking out new approaches that keep safety at the forefront while fostering an inclusive and innovative culture.
Building Resilient Teams: The Importance of Positive Conflict and Professional Development
One session explored the challenge of building and maintaining strong, resilient teams, particularly in an industry where seasonal work is common. These discussions emphasized constructive conflict, long-term professional development, and fostering resilience—a crucial consideration for teams that face both environmental and operational uncertainties.
We left inspired to think about how we can support our teams better and cultivate an environment where our staff can thrive, even under pressure.
A Changing Attendee Profile and Industry Partnerships
There was a unique mix of exhibitors this year, with clothing companies, insurance firms, and risk management services sharing the exhibition space. The changing demographics of both attendees and target audiences reflect shifting trends in the outdoor industry. With fewer young adults in the 18-25 age bracket, some sessions discussed the need for programs to adapt to new demographics, including adult adventurers.
This shift is one we’ll keep watching, as it may change how we prepare for the unique needs and preferences of a more diverse audience.
Media Relations: Turning Crisis into Opportunity
Crisis communications emerged as a significant theme throughout the conference, with multiple sessions providing practical advice on how to handle challenging situations in the public eye. By working alongside the media and framing our own narratives, we can transform potentially negative situations into opportunities that highlight our brand’s strengths and values—a skillset we’ll explore further at our upcoming Cornerstone Retreat.
We gained insights from several powerful sessions, including Crisis Management 101 with Clare Dallat and Deb Ajango, Crisis Comms with Jon Heshka, the NOLS Lightning Case Study presented by Shana Tarter and Katie Baum Mettenbrink, and a session on Wilderness Therapy led by Denise Mitten and Sarah Hoye. We’re excited to continue this conversation with our members and delve even deeper into these strategies soon at our 2025 Retreat.
Hosting our Happy Hour for members and colleagues!
Networking and Rekindling Connections
Beyond the structured sessions, we valued reconnecting with long-time colleagues, members, and meeting new people in the field. In a space where shared knowledge is critical, maintaining these connections and friendships helps us stay grounded and inspired, keeping us connected to the broader goals of wilderness risk management.
Attending WRMC reminded us that while our industry may be evolving, the core principles of safety, connection, and resilience remain as essential as ever. We look forward to applying these lessons and insights within Cornerstone Safety Group and continuing to support our members with a renewed sense of purpose and a fresh perspective on risk management.