About Avery

I was born & raised in the midwest in Pella, Iowa. I spent most of my time growing up playing sports and spending a lot of time outdoors. I competed in football, basketball, baseball, and track. I spent my summers doing a lot of fishing and spent most of my falls in a deer stand or on a football field. I traveled the country each summer visiting various different states while doing mission work. I have always had a strong passion for adventure and service, which has taken me on some incredible trips and I’ve met some incredible people. My love for sports and service led me to the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh where I competed in track and field and studied Human Services Leadership.

During my time in college I worked for Wilderness Trek as summer staff and finished my college career earning my degree while guiding wilderness expeditions. After graduation I returned to Wilderness Trek and have spent the last 3 years working and serving with this ministry. Wilderness Trek sparked a desire in me that I have never experienced before. It was my dream to start or operate a non-profit one day. I knew that I wanted this to be my everyday reality.

After serving with Trek for 3 years and creating deep relationships with members of the board and previous full time staff, I was blessed to be given the opportunity to become Director of Operations. I am currently living the dream that I once pictured and have made wilderness ministry my life. It is because of Wilderness Trek that I have grown my passion for sharing outdoor experiences with others and helping them uncover the best version of themselves while sharing the gospel in His creation.

I currently live in Glorieta, New Mexico. When I am not busy working and preparing for the summer season, you can find me hiking in the mountains, trail running, mountain biking, rock climbing, or fishing a local stream. I also love serving in my local church, growing and connecting with the community, and building meaningful relationships.