Step out of the classroom and onto the trail!
Operational Leadership Expedition: Navigating Uncertain Terrain
An Interdisciplinary Course in Management and Outdoor Leadership offered by the Department of Management and the Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation
Learn leadership and management in one of the U.S.’s most stunning wilderness environments. This interdisciplinary field immersion integrates systems thinking, outdoor leadership, and applied operations into a transformative learning experience.
Summer II: July 13 - August 13 | Tahoe Rim Trail, Lake Tahoe, Sierra Nevada
All majors welcome. Limited spots available.
Program Overview
Students begin with two weeks of online study in leadership and management theory, followed by a two-week backpacking expedition on the Tahoe Rim Trail, including travel through the Desolation Wilderness and covering 90 miles over the course of 10 days. The experience concludes with a reflective online wrap-up connecting field learning to leadership and management practice.
You’ll explore:
- Systems thinking in complex, dynamic environments
- Team leadership and decision-making under uncertainty
- Resource planning, risk management, and adaptability
- The role of stewardship and continuous improvement in organizations
The trail becomes the supply chain. The team becomes the organization. Every mile tests your thinking, leadership, and resilience.
Course Details
| Credits | 6 (MGT 3325: Operations Management; RLS 4V13: Field Course in Outdoor Leadership) |
|---|---|
| Timeframe | Summer II: July 13 - August 13, 2026 |
| Format | Two weeks online (July 13-26) + two weeks in the field (July 26 - August 8) + one reflection week (August 8-13) |
| Field Location | Tahoe Rim Trail, Lake Tahoe, Sierra Nevada (CA/NV) |
| Cost | Tuition plus $1,250 program fee (does NOT include airfare) |
"The Outdoor Leadership Field Course was an incredible opportunity where I was able to grow in confidence, outdoor skills, and see some of the most amazing views across the country. It was challenging yet refreshing at the same time and enabled me to grow a passion for the outdoors." —Derrick Charo
Faculty Leaders
Kelli McMahan, PhD
Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation
Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences
Contact: Kelli_McMahan@baylor.edu
Matt Douglas, PhD
Department of Management
Hankamer School of Business
Contact: Matthew_A_Douglas@baylor.edu
"One of the best ways to learn is experientially, that’s where you fully understand what you’re learning." —Daniel Ezell
Highlights from Previous Trips
"While on the field course in outdoor leadership, I was able to grow both physically and mentally. The experience will challenge you and push you to new limits. These limits definitely improve your leadership capabilities for future endeavors. I recommend taking this course to any major if you want to truly challenge yourself and grow." —Bowen Jackson