James Spencer
Missoula
Summary
Trip Leader with experience in leading diverse group trips, planning itineraries, and ensuring safety standards. Strong communication skills, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities are key strengths. Previous roles involved successfully handling unexpected situations and creating memorable experiences for all participants.
Experienced Outdoor Guide with a background in providing high-quality tours and educational experiences. Responsible for the safety and managing risk for a large group of guests/ Possess thorough knowledge of local history, culture, and geography, ensuring memorable experience for guests. Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, ability to interact with diverse groups effectively, and passion for sharing knowledge
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Trip Leader
University Of Montana Campus Recreation
Missoula
08.2025 - 08.2025
- Managed risk for group of 8 students during four-day, three-night backpacking trip.
- Led groups through diverse terrain, adapting to varying skill levels.
- Guided participants in outdoor skills, promoting teamwork and collaboration.
- Prepared and maintained equipment to ensure operational readiness for trip.
- Administered first aid support during outdoor activities as required.
- Monitored changing environmental conditions affecting chosen routes.
Outdoor Adventure Guide
Alaska Mountain Guides
Haines
05.2025 - 08.2025
- Guided clients through outdoor adventures in diverse Alaskan landscapes, such as sea kayaking, kayaking, canoeing on a glacial lake, hiking, and rock climbing.
- Ensured safety protocols were followed during all guided excursions.
- Assisted with equipment setup and maintenance for outdoor activities.
- Educated participants on local flora, fauna, and environmental conservation.
- Collaborated with team members to enhance client experience and satisfaction.
- Conducted pre-trip briefings to prepare clients for their adventures.
- Monitored weather conditions to ensure optimal trip planning and safety.
- Responded to client inquiries regarding trip details and safety measures.
Lifeguard Instructor
Kings Dominion Amusement Park
Doswell
02.2024 - 08.2024
- Conducted lifeguard training sessions for new recruits and returning staff members.
- Demonstrated water rescue techniques, CPR/AED procedures, and first aid skills.
- Evaluated trainee performance during practical assessments and delivered constructive feedback.
- Ensured consistent adherence to safety regulations and facility policies.
- Facilitated emergency drills to prepare staff for potential incidents.
- Instructed on essential safety and rescue techniques, including CPR and water-rescue skills.
- Provided in-service training on proper use of emergency equipment for existing staff.
Lifeguard Team Lead
Kings Dominion Amusement Park
Doswell
05.2022 - 08.2024
- Responded swiftly to emergencies, delivering first aid and rescue support as needed.
- Collaborated with team members during drills to improve emergency response effectiveness.
- Conducted regular equipment checks to maintain functionality of lifeguard gear.
- Monitored swimmers to ensure safety.
- Managed training for location-specific protocols while overseeing a team of over 25 lifeguards.
- Led multiple teams within the waterpark, enhancing operational efficiency and coordination.
Lifeguard
Kings Dominion Amusement Park
Doswell
04.2021 - 08.2021
- Monitored swimming areas for safety and adherence to facility rules.
- Responded swiftly to emergencies, providing first aid and rescue assistance.
- Enforced pool regulations to ensure a safe environment for all visitors.
- Participated in monthly training courses to stay up-to-date in water rescue techniques.
Education
Environmental Studies -
The University of Montana
Missoula, MT05-2028
Parks, Tourism, And Recreation Management - Outdoor Recreation Managment
The University of Montana
Missoula, MT05-2028
Minor in Wilderness Studies - Wilderness And Civilization
The University of Montana
Missoula, MT12-2025
High School Diploma -
The Steward School
Richmond, VA05-2024
Skills
- Risk management and emergency preparedness
- Outdoor education and navigation
- Team leadership and management
- Water rescue and first aid techniques
- Employee training and development
- Customer service
Certification
- Aerie Backcountry Medicine Wilderness First Responder
- Ellis and Associates lifeguard, CPR, AED, and BLS Instructor-certified
- Ellis and Associates Safety and Health Instructor Trainer certified
- Ellis and Associates Safety and Health Instructor certified
- Ellis and Associates Special Facilities Lifeguard certified
- vanGUARD Aquatics Leadership Certified
Accomplishments
Eagle Scout; the highest rank achievable in Scouting America
Member of Order of the Arrow, the honor society of Scouting America
Outstanding Achievement Award, Kings Dominion: Team award presented in appreciation for commitment to maintaining the highest standard of efficiency and capacity. (2023)
Team Lead of the Year, Soak City (2023)
Team Lead of the Year, Soak City (2024)
Certificate of Recognition, Kings Dominion: Top of the Tower Award; “Your display of dedication to being a top performer. Be proud of this achievement, as it is associates like you who create unique experiences and lasting memories that are uniquely Kings Dominion.” “James is great with children during Great Pumpkin Fest, always interacting as they wait and complimenting their costumes. He is also a fantastic lead in both Great Pumpkin Fest and in Soak City water park, putting team members first and consistently checking on them” (2023)
Kings Dominion Scholarship Finalist (2024)
Affiliations
- Scouting America
- University of Montana Wildlife Society
- University of Montana Freeride Ski Club
- University of Montana Rock Climbing Club
- Skiing
- Rock Climbing
- Hike/Backpack
- Sea Kayaking
- Whitewater rafting/kayaking
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Weight Lifting
- Soccer
- Lacrosse
Timeline
Trip Leader
University Of Montana Campus Recreation
08.2025 - 08.2025
Outdoor Adventure Guide
Alaska Mountain Guides
05.2025 - 08.2025
Lifeguard Instructor
Kings Dominion Amusement Park
02.2024 - 08.2024
Lifeguard Team Lead
Kings Dominion Amusement Park
05.2022 - 08.2024
Lifeguard
Kings Dominion Amusement Park
04.2021 - 08.2021
Environmental Studies -
The University of Montana
Parks, Tourism, And Recreation Management - Outdoor Recreation Managment
The University of Montana
Minor in Wilderness Studies - Wilderness And Civilization
The University of Montana
High School Diploma -
The Steward School
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