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Melanie Erquiaga
Melanie Erquiaga
00:52

Melanie Erquiaga

Nevada Outdoor School

Winnemucca, NV USA

"Don’t be afraid to initiate a conversation because if you sit back and wait for others, you’re going to be sitting there for a long time."

Career Roadmap

Melanie's work combines: Environment & Nature, Non-Profit Organizations, and Working with Others

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Day In The Life

Executive Director

I lead an organization that inspires exploration and responsible stewardship of the natural world.

02:06

Day In The Life Of An Executive Director Of An Outdoor School

My Day to Day

My typical day is full of multitasking and a lot of variety. I'm responsible for the financial success of the organization. I write grants and funding requests, and handle reporting requirements. I manage a staff of 10 as well as an AmeriCorps crew. I make sure our programs are delivered to the highest quality. I also work closely with our Board members to ensure the organization is well run and working transparently. Fortunately, I have a really stellar staff to support me.

Skills & Education

Here's the path I took:

  • High School

  • Vocational

    Automation Secretary

    ITT Technical School

Here's the path I recommend for someone who wants to be an Executive Director:

Bachelor's Degree: Public Administration and Management

Learn more about different paths to this career

Life & Career Milestones

My path in life took a while to figure out

  • 1.

    I moved to Nevada when I was 13 years old.

  • 2.

    I found a lifelong connection to the state through outdoor activities with my husband, who introduced me to the beauty of nature.

  • 3.

    After losing my job during the 2008 recession, I found a new path at Nevada Outdoor School where I started as a financial manager with no prior experience in education.

  • 4.

    My team and I rescued Nevada Outdoor School from financial instability, and within two years, we doubled our budget and expanded our reach into new communities.

  • 5.

    Taking on the role of Executive Director allowed me to combine my love for the outdoors with my skills in finance.

  • 6.

    We have since transformed Nevada Outdoor School into a premier outdoor education provider.

  • 7.

    We've grown to serve multiple rural counties, offering programs that teach kids to connect with nature, practice stewardship, and explore the outdoors.

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